Social networks and social support in weight loss

Abstract

In the research on weight control, there is currently a move away from use of artificial support groups to use of more naturally occurring support systems such as families and friends. While clients who are attempting to control their weight are often encouraged to seek support from families, friends, and co-workers, there is little information available which describes what kinds of support have been found to be most helpful and who are the best providers of this support. The purpose of this pilot project was to examine and describe the influence of different types of support and sources of support on weight control using a social networks analysis approach. Results of this pilot study suggest that social support is important in weight control with appraisal support, both general and specific to weight control, being most strongly correlated with weight loss. The precise influence of spouses and families needs further clarification. Results of this pilot project showed that over 40% of the sample identified family members as both the most and least helpful in attempts to control weight.