Meeting Students Where They Eat

A Qualitative Study Exploring K-12 Student Experiences of the School Cafeteria

Authors

  • Christine C. Caruso
  • Amy Rosenthal

Keywords:

school meals, cafeteria environment, student wellness, proxemics, incivilities

Abstract

Research into school cafeterias has largely focused on the nutritional content of food and what students consume. However, the cafeteria is also an important setting for understanding and promoting the overall well-being of students. Through 17 group interviews with 96 students, we conducted an open-ended exploration of their perspectives on the environment in which they eat. The interviews highlight a variety of stressors present in the cafeteria setting, including crowding, volume, and frequent adverse social interactions. We use the framework of proxemics and the concept of incivilities to reflect on students’ experience of the social and built environment of the cafeteria, suggesting that a more positive lunch experience would offer a better balance of stimulation and privacy for students.

Published

2022-02-23