OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to identify the relationship between two constructs of the Transtheoretical Model - stages and processes of change - related to the consumption of fruits and vegetables by adolescents. METHODS: In a cross-sectional study, 61 adolescents were surveyed. The self-liberation process was significantly distinguished (p<0.05) in all stages of change in the consumption of fruits and vegetables. RESULTS: The social support process presented significant differences (p<0.05) between the precontemplation/ contemplation and preparation stages of change only in fruit consumption. CONCLUSION: With respect to the use of the self-reassessment process, significant differences were found (p<0.05) between precontemplation/contemplation and preparation stages in vegetable consumption. Some specific processes of change were used by adolescents when moving through the stages of change. Interventions using these processes should be done to allow advances in the stages of change in the consumption of fruits and vegetables.
adolescent behavior; fruits; vegetables
