The effect of a multi-component school-based social network intervention on children’s body mass index: a four-arm intervention study

Obesity contagion among classmates: Children's relation with each other regarding weight status, physical activity, and dietary intake

“…The positive relationship between BMI and social ties is consistent with the results of studies conducted among students from the same school or community ( Asirvatham et al, 2014 ; Lim & Meer, 2018 ; Loh & Li, 2013 ; Nie et al, 2015 ). Network interventions use social networks to accelerate behavioral change, which is believed to be more effective than non-network alternatives ( Hene et al, 2022 ; Jancey et al, 2023 ; Polman et al, 2023 ; Valente, 2012 ). As suggested by several obesity treatment and simulation studies, focusing on broader social ties is an effective strategy ( Bahr et al, 2009 ; Daw et al, 2015 ; Leahey et al, 2015 ; Lower-Hoppe et al, 2022 ).…”

The Swiss Cheese Model of Social Cues - Trekels & Telzer

“…Consequently, the functional value of these social cues plays a pivotal role in shaping both positive and negative social media effects, contingent upon the specific content. For instance, significant endorsement of positive peer norms can lead to increased positive behaviors (e.g., water consumption; Polman et al, 2023), but further research is needed to explore whether this extends to prosocial behaviors or positive self-perception.…”