The Social Context as a Determinant of Weight-Related Behaviors: Focus on Social Norms

Lori Pbert, University of Massachusetts Medical School
Stephenie C. Lemon, University of Massachusetts Medical School

Abstract

Most research addressing social context as a determinant of weight-related behaviors has focused on social support and social networks, with limited research assessing social norms. Social norms for obesity are an important variable to understand given the pervasiveness of this condition in our society and the multiple life situations in which individuals are exposed to obesity-related behaviors. This presentation discusses a study that developed a measurement approach to assessing weight loss, dietary and physical activity social norms in the worksite and assessed the associations of these norms with behaviors.