Perceptions of eating habits and physical self-concept in students from a single-teacher educational institution

Tello-Salazar L.A.; Ramos A.-B.; Requena-Cabral G. · Frontiers in Education (2026) · DOI: 10.3389/feduc.2026.1808627

Resumen

Introduction – This research aimed to understand how perceptions of eating habits and physical self-concept manifest in the nutritional, physical, academic, social, and psychological lives of students at a one-room schoolhouse in the village of Huariquiña, Huarochirí. Methods – A qualitative approach with a phenomenological design was used, employing semi-structured interviews with ten primary school students. Results – The findings showed that students had basic notions about healthy eating, although with conceptual misconceptions influenced by their family and cultural context. Regarding physical self-concept, they expressed acceptance and motivation, but also comparison with and dependence on the opinions of others. Discussion – It was concluded that the family, the school, and physical education play an important role in building healthy habits and forming a positive self-image, highlighting the need to strengthen nutritional and emotional education in rural contexts.

Instituciones: Universidad Peruana Unión