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01-09-2013 | Original Research

Weight loss social support in 140 characters or less: use of an online social network in a remotely delivered weight loss intervention

Authors: Gabrielle M Turner-McGrievy, PhD, MS, RD, Deborah F Tate, PhD

Published in: Translational Behavioral Medicine | Issue 3/2013

ABSTRACT

Little is known about how online social networking can help enhance weight loss. To examine the types of online social support utilized in a behavioral weight loss intervention and relationship of posting and weight loss. A sub-analysis of the content and number of posts to Twitter among participants (n = 47) randomized to a mobile, social network arm as part of a 6-month trial among overweight adults, examining weight loss, use of Twitter, and type of social support (informational, tangible assistance, esteem, network, and emotional support). A number of Twitter posts were related to % weight loss at 6 months (p < 0.001). Initial reported weight loss predicted engagement with Twitter (p < 0.01) but prior Twitter use or initial Twitter engagement did not. Most Twitter posts (total posts n = 2,630) were Informational support (n = 1,981; 75 %), with the predominant subtype of Teaching (n = 1,632; 62 %), mainly in the form of a status update (n = 1,319). Engagement with Twitter was related to weight loss and participants mainly used Twitter to provide Information support to one another through status updates.

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Title: Weight loss social support in 140 characters or less: use of an online social network in a remotely delivered weight loss intervention
Authors: Gabrielle M Turner-McGrievy, PhD, MS, RD
Deborah F Tate, PhD
Publication date: 01-09-2013
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Translational Behavioral Medicine / Issue 3/2013
Print ISSN: 1869-6716
Electronic ISSN: 1613-9860
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13142-012-0183-y

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Weight loss social support in 140 characters or less: use of an online social network in a remotely delivered weight loss intervention

ABSTRACT

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

ABSTRACT

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