Research paper
Cruwys T, Bevelander KE, Hermans RCJ. Social modeling of eating: A review of when and why social influence affects food intake and choice. Appetite. 2015;86:3-18. doi:10.1016/j.appet.2014.08.035
Why we cite it
The most comprehensive review of experimental evidence on social modeling of eating: 69 studies spanning 1974-2014 with over 5,800 participants. Uniquely valuable because it synthesizes *when* and *why* modeling occurs, not just *whether* it occurs. The proposed model — that modeling is a motivated strategy serving affiliation and norm-learning goals, not mindless mimicry — provides the theoretical framework the project needs for companions about social eating contexts (work lunches, potlucks, family dinners). Also identifies specific moderators (relationship, similarity, food type, context) that map directly to practical guidance.
DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2014.08.035 · PubMed 25174571 · Publisher