Positive Social Interactions Promote Health

Previous studies have suggested that social norms can influence health-related behaviors, such as physical activity and eating patterns.  Kylie Ball, from Deakin University (Australia), and colleagues investigated the associations between clearly-defined social norms and a range of physical activity and eating behaviors amongst women, adjusting for the effects of social support. The researchers enrolled 3,610 women, ages 18 to 46 years, residing in Victoria, Australia.  Via surveys, the team collected data about the subjects’ physical activity (leisure-time moderate-vigorous activity; volitional walking; cycling for transport) and eating behaviors (fast food, soft drink and fruit and vegetable consumption), and social norms and support for these.  The researchers tested the extent to which a fashion for healthy behavior among a person’s contacts could influence their own lifestyle. The women who took part in the study were asked to rate how much they agreed with statements like “I often see other people walking in my neighborhood” and “Lots of women I know eat fast food often”. Those women who moved in healthier circles were in turn more likely to eat well and get more exercise. Suggesting that: “These data confirm theoretical accounts of the importance of social norms for physical activity and eating behaviors, and suggest that this is independent from social support,” the team concludes that: “Intervention strategies aimed at promoting physical activity and healthy eating could incorporate strategies aimed at modifying social norms relating to these behaviors.”