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Use of a mobile social networking intervention for weight management: a mixed-methods study protocol
Liliana Laranjo1, Annie Y S Lau1, Paige Martin1
1Macquarie University, Australian Institute of Health Innovation-Centre for Health Informatics, Sydney, Australia.
BMJ Open
|July 15, 2017
Summary
This pilot study tested a social networking app and trackers to promote weight loss and physical activity. Findings will explore social influence on health behaviors for future interventions.
Area of Science:
- Health behavior change
- Digital health interventions
- Social influence in health
Background:
- Obesity and physical inactivity are significant global health challenges.
- Information and communication technologies offer promising avenues for behavior change interventions.
- Social networking platforms show potential for delivering weight control programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To pilot test a social networking mobile application intervention combined with tracking devices.
- To evaluate the impact of social comparison on weight and physical activity.
- To assess the role of social influence mechanisms in health behavior change.
Main Methods:
- A 6-month, mixed-methods, pre-post quasi-experimental pilot study.
- Inclusion of healthy participants (19-35 years) across BMI categories.
- Utilized a social networking app, Fitbit Flex 2, and Fitbit Aria scale.
Main Results:
- Primary outcome: average weight difference pre- and post-intervention.
- Secondary outcomes: BMI, daily steps, engagement, social support, usability.
- Qualitative data from semi-structured interviews on participant expectations and perceptions.
Conclusions:
- The study aims to provide insights into the effectiveness of technology-driven social interventions for weight management.
- Findings will inform the design of future large-scale digital health initiatives.
- Ethical considerations and researcher moderation were integral to the study protocol.
