Differences in Measured and Self-Categorized Food Security Status and Related Coping Strategies among College Students

Qualitative studies suggest that college students with food insecurity (FI) experience stigma and misinterpret some of the USDA Adult Food Security Survey Module (AFSSM) questions, leading to misclassification of food security (FS) status. We aimed to evaluate differences in AFSSM-measured FS status and self-categorized FS status (based on USDA descriptions of the four FS levels) among college students, and to identify differences in the coping strategies and BMI of these students. Data were collected cross-sectionally from a convenience sample via web-based, self-reported surveys. Measured FS, self-categorized FS, coping strategies, and self-reported BMI were key variables of interest. Participants were 1003 undergraduate and graduate students (22.2 +/- 4.6 years; 65.7% female). Of the participants measured as food insecure (40.0%), 57.8% self-categorized as food secure (MFI-SFS) and 42.2% self-categorized as food insecure (MFI-SFI). Significantly more MFI-SFI participants were AFSSM-categorized as having very low FS when compared to MFI-SFS participants (71.6% vs. 46.6%, p < 0.05). MFI-SFI participants reported significantly higher BMI (M = 24.7, SD +/- 6.0 kg/m(2)) and coping strategies scores (M = 49.8, SD +/- 7.5) when compared to MFI-SFS participants (M = 23.1, SD +/- 3.6 kg/m(2); M = 46.9, SD +/- 7.5, respectively, p <= 0.01). Assessment of and interventions to address FI among college students should consider the potential influence of self-perception and students' interpretation of survey questions.

Automated summary

Qualitative studies have shown that college students may misinterpret the Adult Food Security Survey Module (AFSSM) questions, leading to misclassification of food security status. This study examines the differences between AFSSM-measured food security status and self-categorized food security status among college students, and explores the impact on coping strategies and BMI. The results suggest that self-perception and interpretation of survey questions play a significant role in food security measurement among college students.