Social Support in an Internet-based Weight Loss Intervention Among College Students

Social Support in an Internet-based Weight Loss Intervention Among College Students PDF Author: Yijia Zhang
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
Objective: To assess college students’ perceptions regarding online social support in an 8-week Internet-based weight loss intervention. Participants: Participants were those randomized to the intervention group of an online weight loss intervention targeting overweight and obese college students. Methods: Members of the intervention group had access to a private discussion forum and weekly live chat sessions, allowing for anonymous interactions. Following the 8-week intervention, intervention group members were invited to complete an online focus group, discussing these tools. The transcripts were directly copied from the live chat conversation history. Using thematic analysis, perceptions regarding online social support were identified, coded and sorted and organized into themes. Results: Two online focus groups were conducted (n=7, overall). Thematic analysis indicated that participants appreciated the social support provided by the forum and live chat sessions. While many preferred the interactive feature of the live chat sessions, others enjoyed the constant availability of the forum. However, barriers including time restrictions, technology-related preferences, and concerns about online interpersonal relationships were also identified. Conclusions: Combining forum and live chat sessions may benefit individuals differently, based on preference, and both should likely be incorporated into an online weight loss intervention.

Social Support in an Internet-based Weight Loss Intervention Among College Students

Social Support in an Internet-based Weight Loss Intervention Among College Students PDF Author: Yijia Zhang
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
Objective: To assess college students’ perceptions regarding online social support in an 8-week Internet-based weight loss intervention. Participants: Participants were those randomized to the intervention group of an online weight loss intervention targeting overweight and obese college students. Methods: Members of the intervention group had access to a private discussion forum and weekly live chat sessions, allowing for anonymous interactions. Following the 8-week intervention, intervention group members were invited to complete an online focus group, discussing these tools. The transcripts were directly copied from the live chat conversation history. Using thematic analysis, perceptions regarding online social support were identified, coded and sorted and organized into themes. Results: Two online focus groups were conducted (n=7, overall). Thematic analysis indicated that participants appreciated the social support provided by the forum and live chat sessions. While many preferred the interactive feature of the live chat sessions, others enjoyed the constant availability of the forum. However, barriers including time restrictions, technology-related preferences, and concerns about online interpersonal relationships were also identified. Conclusions: Combining forum and live chat sessions may benefit individuals differently, based on preference, and both should likely be incorporated into an online weight loss intervention.

Facebook as Social Supprt for a One-time Weight Loss Intervention Among College Students

Facebook as Social Supprt for a One-time Weight Loss Intervention Among College Students PDF Author: Erica Seely
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 234

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Book Description
Approximately 32% of college-aged individuals are overweight or obese, yet few weight loss programs have effectively motivated this population to adopt a healthier lifestyle. A majority of this population frequently uses the social networking site Facebook. This study examined the impact of a Facebook social support group on weight loss efforts of college students. A total of 24 students were randomly assigned to either the intervention group, which consisted of a Facebook support group, or control group after attending a one-time weight loss class. Assessments were taken at baseline and four weeks. Of participants in this study, 83.3% were Facebook users. All but two participants were female with 47.8% identifying as black, non-Hispanic and 39.1% as white, non-Hispanic. Most participants were considered obese or overweight with 39-inch median waist circumference for women and 44-inch median waist circumference for men. The primary outcome was a mean weight loss of -3.55 ± 4.25 lbs. for those in the intervention group compared to -1.61 ± 3.24 lbs. for the control group after four weeks. Though results were not statistically significant, the intervention group lost more weight than the control group. Results indicate the potential for an innovative weight loss aid that utilizes an online site already integrated into the lifestyle of college students.

Acceptability, Feasibility, and Preliminary Efficacy of Emphasizing Peer Relationships in a Facebook-based Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention for College Students

Acceptability, Feasibility, and Preliminary Efficacy of Emphasizing Peer Relationships in a Facebook-based Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention for College Students PDF Author: LaNaya M. Anderson
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : College students
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
Approximately 37% of college students are overweight or obese (American College Health Association, 2021), and as a result, may face adverse health consequences (Kopelman, 2007) and psychosocial consequences (Wyatt, Winters & Dubbert, 2006). Despite college students' need and reported desire to lose weight to avoid the short and long-term consequences of obesity, standard behavioral weight loss treatments designed for adult populations have not proven to be as effective with a college student population (Plotnikoff et al., 2015). Some studies have explored ways to adapt the standard behavioral weight loss treatment (BWL) to college students and emerging adult populations, with some success (e.g., Gokee-Larose et al., 2019; Napolitano et al., 2013). The purpose of the current study was to replicate an adapted standard BWL treatment to a college student population and improve upon it by adding an emphasis on peer interaction with the aim of increasing social support and treatment engagement. As an early stage of treatment development, the current study aimed to assess the treatments' feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy using a randomized-control format. Eighty college students were enrolled and randomized into one of three arms, waitlist control (n = 26), the replicated adapted BWL treatment, HEAT (n = 26), and the adapted BWL treatment with an emphasis on peer interaction, HEAT-PEER (n = 28). There were significant differences between the groups on all weight-related variables. The HEAT group appeared acceptable and somewhat efficacious with an average weight loss of 3.83 pounds, but it was not feasible, with only 46% of participants meeting intervention completion standards. The HEAT-PEER group also appeared to be acceptable, was more efficacious with an average weight loss of 9.10 pounds, and feasible, with 89% of participants meeting intervention completion standards. Secondary analyses on treatment engagement, peer interaction, and behavioral changes were also assessed. Results indicate that adding an emphasis on peer interaction to an adapted BWL treatment is feasible, acceptable, and preliminarily efficacious and may provide benefits beyond those found in previous research with a college student population.

Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Persuasive Technology

Proceedings of the 4th International Conference on Persuasive Technology PDF Author: Association for Computing Machinery
Publisher:
ISBN: 9781605583761
Category : Health promotion
Languages : en
Pages : 279

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Book Description
Persuasive 2009; 4th International Conference on Persuasive Technology Apr 26, 2009-Apr 29, 2009 Claremont, USA. You can view more information about this proceeding and all of ACMs other published conference proceedings from the ACM Digital Library: http://www.acm.org/dl.

An Evaluation of the Feasibility and Acceptability of a Technology-based Pilot Program to Reduce Overweight and Obesity Among College Students

An Evaluation of the Feasibility and Acceptability of a Technology-based Pilot Program to Reduce Overweight and Obesity Among College Students PDF Author: Christine Sumie Sugimoto
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 97

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Book Description
Background: One-third of US undergraduate students are overweight or obese, and weight gain may occur during the college years. Thus, there is a need for weight loss interventions for college students. Innovative technology-based programs may be a promising strategy to promote weight loss. Weight management interventions incorporating technology have been implemented in US university settings, with varying degrees of success. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility and acceptability of a pilot technology-based weight loss program to reduce overweight and obesity among college students. Methods: The pilot study investigated the effectiveness of a technology-based weight loss intervention on reducing body mass index (BMI) among college students. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two conditions: (1) an 8-week technology-based weight loss program or (2) an 8-week email education program. A mixed methods approach, including online surveys and focus groups, was employed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the pilot study. Feasibility was measured through recruitment and retention data and participant engagement. Results: Twenty undergraduate students (90% female, age 20.4 ± 1.4 years, BMI 32.1 ± 4.6 kg/m2) participated in the study. The retention rate for the study was 95%, with 90% of the intervention group and 100% of the control group completing the 8-week assessments. The technology-based program was acceptable to the students. In addition, over half the respondents in the intervention group indicated that text messaging was most helpful as well as the website, exercise videos, nutrition facts, and smartphone applications. There were mixed responses about the forum, which was underutilized. Participants in the intervention group expressed a desire for additional accountability, support, and motivation and suggested using Skype group chats and mobile accessibility to further facilitate interaction among group members. Conclusion: Technology-based weight loss interventions, which include a central peer support component and mobile accessibility, are a promising strategy for recruiting, retaining, and engaging overweight and obese college students. Further research is needed to enhance the development of effective technology-based programs for students.

Preventing Weight Gain in First Year College Students

Preventing Weight Gain in First Year College Students PDF Author: Rachel Walker Gow
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : College freshmen
Languages : en
Pages :

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Book Description
The transition to college has been identified as a critical period for increases in overweight status. Overweight college students are at-risk of becoming obese adults, thus prevention efforts targeting college age individuals might be one key to reducing adult obesity rates. The current study developed and implemented an intensive, 6-session, internet intervention. This intervention was evaluated with first year college students assigned randomly to one of four treatment conditions: 1) no treatment, 2) 6-week weight and caloric feedback only, 3) 6-week internet intervention, and 4) 6-week combined feedback and internet intervention. As expected, the combined intervention group had lower BMI at post-testing than the internet, feedback, and control groups. The combined intervention showed reduced snacking behaviors after dinner; however, other measures of eating and exercise behaviors and beliefs were not observed. Ethnic and gender differences were observed. African American participants had lower body dissatisfaction than White participants. Further, within the White subsample, the combined intervention group manifested reductions in binge eating symptoms and increased fiber intake compared to controls. Males reported more physical activity across all intervention arms than females. This study demonstrates the effectiveness and feasibility of an internet based intervention to prevent weight gain among college students. Future studies are needed to understand the mechanisms involved in preventing weight gain in this age group and to develop more culturally targeted interventions for diverse students.

Early Intervention of Eating and Weight-related Problems Via the Internet in Overweight Adolescents

Early Intervention of Eating and Weight-related Problems Via the Internet in Overweight Adolescents PDF Author: Angela Ann Celio
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Eating disorders in children
Languages : en
Pages : 402

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Book Description
More than one out of seven adolescents are currently overweight or obese and the majority of these adolescents are expected to experience compromised mental and physical health over their lifetimes. Body dissatisfaction and the elevated rates of eating disordered behaviors in this population have rarely been addressed in obesity treatment programs. This study evaluated the efficacy of an integrated, Internet-delivered, early intervention approach targeting weight loss, body dissatisfaction, and reduction of eating disordered behaviors in an overweight adolescent sample. Sixty-one 12- to 18-year olds who were overweight or obese (mean BMI percentile = 97.71 ± 2.51) were randomly assigned to Student Bodies 2 (SB2), a 16-week Internet-delivered program utilizing a cognitive-behavioral approach, or typical care (TC). Each week during the program, SB2 participants logged on to the website to read psychoeducational materials, complete online food, physical activity, weight, and body image journals, and participate in an asynchronous group discussion. Assessments were conducted at baseline and at post-treatment. A statistically significant reduction in BMI z-score was found when compared to the TC group (F[1,58] = 6.29, p = .015; ES = 0.19). No statistically significant differences were noted between groups on measures of eating disordered attitudes and behaviors, with the exception of an increase in dietary restraint in the SB2 group (F [1,55] = 4.88, p = .031), which reflected program recommendations. SB2 participants reduced consumption of high-fat foods (F[1,52] = 6.09, p = .017); ES = 0.61), and increased eating-related (F[1,58] = 11.34, p = .001; ES = 0.94) and physical activity-related cognitive and behavioral skills use (F[1,58] = 7.43, p = .008; ES = 0.78). However, none of these variables were shown to be mediators of outcome. SB2 participants also reported reduced stress levels compared to increases in stress in the TC group (F [1,51] = 9.41, p = .003; ES = 0.53). Findings suggest that an Internet-delivered intervention yields a modest reduction in weight status and that body image and eating disordered behaviors are not negatively impacted. Implications include the acceptability of the Internet as a potentially effective modality in the treatment of adolescent obesity and associated conditions.

איזון יתר לחץ דם, סיבוכים כליתיים וקרדיווסקולרים

איזון יתר לחץ דם, סיבוכים כליתיים וקרדיווסקולרים PDF Author:
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages :

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Internet Technology and Social Support

Internet Technology and Social Support PDF Author: Wendy Ann Olson
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category :
Languages : en
Pages :

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Book Description
In recent years, literature in the area of web-based interventions for health-related concerns has burgeoned due to the increasing popularity and accessibility of the World Wide Web. Researchers have investigated the success of web-based programs to facilitate improved health behaviors, weight loss, and social support. However, due to the relatively recent application of web-based health-behavior programs, little research has studied whether these interventions are effective with overweight older adolescents. The purpose of this study was to test the application of health behavior theory in an on-line intervention designed to address health behaviors such as exercise and nutrition in a sample of overweight older adolescents. Using a pre-test, post-test, randomized, control group design, participants (n=71) were randomly assigned to either the comparison (Information) group, or the treatment (Information plus Discussion) group. Specific aims of the study were: 1) To test a new health behavior theory, the Model of Influence of Social Support on Health Behavior (MISSHRB), in a group of older adolescents; 2) To determine the feasibility and clinical utility of an internet intervention for social support for overweight older adolescents, and 3) To examine the impact of that intervention on the MISSHB variables. Results provided partial support for the MISSHRB, with social support correlating significantly with expectancies, attitudes, and perceived behavioral control. Results also provided support for the hypotheses that family general support, family specific support, attitudes, and engagement in health behaviors would improve over time. Results supported the feasibility of using an internet intervention with overweight older adolescents, with participants easily engaging in the study, fulfilling study requirements and reporting improved perceptions of the utility of online groups for providing social support. Additionally, results approached significance for medical outcomes, with trends representing Body Mass Index decrease over time, and suggesting that the Information plus Discussion group lost more weight than the Information group. These data suggest that internet information and discussion groups have promise as a means of social support for older overweight adolescents who are interested in improving their health behaviors. These results also provide information about the usefulness of web-based programs in facilitating overweight older adolescents' engagement in health-related behaviors and the utilization of internet support groups for other marginalized or socially stigmatized groups.

Handbook of Obesity Treatment, Second Edition

Handbook of Obesity Treatment, Second Edition PDF Author: Thomas A. Wadden
Publisher: Guilford Publications
ISBN: 1462535569
Category : Psychology
Languages : en
Pages : 737

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Book Description
The leading clinical reference work in the field--now significantly revised with 85% new material--this handbook has given thousands of practitioners and students a comprehensive understanding of the causes, consequences, and management of adult and childhood obesity. In concise, extensively referenced chapters from preeminent authorities, the Handbook presents foundational knowledge and reviews the state of the science of evidence-based psychosocial and lifestyle interventions as well as pharmacological and surgical treatments. It provides guidelines for conducting psychosocial and medical assessments and for developing individualized treatment plans. The effects of obesity--and of weight loss--on physical and psychological well-being are reviewed, as are strategies for helping patients maintain their weight loss. New to This Edition *Many new authors and topics; extensively revised and expanded with over 15 years of research and clinical advances, including breakthroughs in understanding the biological regulation of appetite and body weight. *Section on contributors to obesity, with new chapters on food choices, physical activity, sleep, and psychosocial and environmental factors. *Chapters on novel treatments for adults--acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, digitally based interventions, behavioral economics, community-based programs, and nonsurgical devices. *Chapters on novel treatments for children and adolescents--school-based preventive interventions, pharmacological treatment, and bariatric surgery. *Chapters on the gut microbiome, the emerging field of obesity medicine, reimbursement for weight loss therapies, and managing co-occurring eating disorders and obesity.