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01-12-2014 | Original Research

Varying social media post types differentially impacts engagement in a behavioral weight loss intervention

Authors: Sarah B. Hales, PhD Candidate, MSW, LMSW, Charis Davidson, DrPH Candidate, MPH, Gabrielle M. Turner-McGrievy, PhD, MS, RD

Published in: Translational Behavioral Medicine | Issue 4/2014

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine whether different types of posts differentially affect participant engagement and if engagement with social media enhances weight loss. Data are a subanalysis from a randomized weight loss study with a 4-month follow-up support period via private Facebook groups and monthly meetings. Counselors posted five different post types/week based on social cognitive theory (weight-related, recipes, nutrition information, poll votes, or requests for suggestions). Types of participant engagement (likes, comments/poll votes, and views) were assessed. Poll votes were the most engaging (mean number of votes or comments/poll 14.6 ± 3.4, P < 0.01) followed by suggestions (9.1 ± 2.7 posts, P < 0.01) and weight-related posts (7.4 ± 3.1 posts, P < 0.01). Engagement with Facebook was significantly associated with weight loss during the 4-month maintenance period (B = −0.09, P = 0.04). The findings provide evidence for ways to provide social support during weight loss interventions using remote methodology.

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Title: Varying social media post types differentially impacts engagement in a behavioral weight loss intervention
Authors: Sarah B. Hales, PhD Candidate, MSW, LMSW
Charis Davidson, DrPH Candidate, MPH
Gabrielle M. Turner-McGrievy, PhD, MS, RD
Publication date: 01-12-2014
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Translational Behavioral Medicine / Issue 4/2014
Print ISSN: 1869-6716
Electronic ISSN: 1613-9860
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13142-014-0274-z

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Varying social media post types differentially impacts engagement in a behavioral weight loss intervention

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