Can social cognitive theory explain breakfast frequency in workplace institutional feeding populations?

Purpose The purpose of this study is to respond calls increase levels theory application and extend understanding beyond individuals ensuring social structural environmental considerations are taken into account. Social cognitive (SCT) was applied across two settings examine its potential explain breakfast eating frequency. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional survey conducted in institutional feeding populations [military ( n = 314) mining 235)]. Participants reported key SCT constructs including behaviour (self-efficacy, skills, practice), aspects (knowledge, attitude, expectations) their perceptions regarding (access, norms, influence). These were measured analysed through SPSS equation modelling (SEM). Findings Results indicated that 71% males 90% females the military do not eat at work, mining, 23% 24% work. Furthermore, SEM found only a satisfactory fit for as operationalised study. Within models, behavioural self-efficacy, skills practice significant influences on eating. Cognitive exerted little no effect Study results indicate SCT, using selection environment, constructs, does offer sufficient explanatory behaviour. Originality/value value paper deliver complete Theory, multiple frequency workplace settings.