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Liu S, Miao M. Observing Others' Workouts on Social Network Sites Improves the Observer's Physical Activity: A Moderated-Mediation Model. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024; 39:2589-2597. [PMID: 37941368 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2023.2278215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Many people like to share their physical activity (PA) experiences on social network sites (SNSs). Drawing on social cognitive theory, we examined in two studies whether observing others' workouts on SNSs could improve the observer's PA via the mediation of workout self-efficacy. In study 1, a two-wave longitudinal online survey of 461 participants, exposure to SNS workout posts was positively associated with PA through workout self-efficacy. In study 2, an online experimental study with 124 participants, manipulating perceived similarity revealed that it moderates between exposure to SNS workout posts and workout self-efficacy. Moreover, moderation of the indirect effect between exposure to SNS workout posts and PA via workout self-efficacy was supported. These findings reveal the mechanisms and boundary conditions of social media exposure improving workout self-efficacy and promoting PA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangqing Liu
- Guangming School of Journalism and Communication, China University of Political Science and Law
| | - Miao Miao
- Department of Medical Psychology, School of Health Humanities, Peking University
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2
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Zhang M, Li X. Maintaining healthy lifestyle through fitness app use: A parallel mediation model from a nationwide survey. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076241277483. [PMID: 39221083 PMCID: PMC11363243 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241277483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Adolescents face various health challenges due to academic pressures and sedentary lifestyles. Establishing healthy habits during this critical period is essential for long-term well-being. With the widespread use of fitness apps, understanding their impact on adolescent health behaviors and the underlying mechanisms is crucial. Guided by social support theory and social comparison theory, this study examined the influence of WeRun, a fitness app within WeChat, on adolescents' adoption of healthy lifestyles. It investigated the correlation between WeRun usage and healthy behaviors, as well as the underlying mechanisms driving this relationship. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted across 31 provinces and metropolitans in China, utilizing a random cluster sampling approach targeting high school and freshman students aged 15-24 (N = 1312). A parallel mediation model was employed to test the hypotheses. Results The analysis showed that WeRun use positively predicted both social support and social comparison. Meanwhile, both social support and social comparison were positively associated with healthy lifestyles. Additionally, WeRun use could not directly predict healthy lifestyles. However, WeRun use indirectly predicted healthy lifestyles via social support and social comparison. Conclusions The study's findings revealed the pivotal roles of social support and social comparison as mediating variables in the relationship between adolescents' WeRun usage and adoption of healthy lifestyles. The results contributed to the current comprehension of the mechanisms linking app utilization to health-promoting behaviors. Furthermore, it provided valuable insights for promoting adolescent health and informed improved design strategies for fitness apps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhang
- School of Media & Communication, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojing Li
- School of Media & Communication, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P. R. China
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Zheng X, Li W. Association between fitness technology use and physical activity mediated by communication behaviors on social media. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076241266367. [PMID: 39055784 PMCID: PMC11271164 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241266367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Fitness technologies, such as smartphone applications and wearable tracking devices, have gained widespread popularity. This study had two main objectives: 1) to examine whether fitness technology use is associated with increased physical activity (PA) levels and 2) to investigate whether communication behaviors on social media mediated the association between fitness technology use and PA. Methods Data were from the U.S. Health Information National Trends Survey 2022 (N = 6,252, weighted N = 258,418,467). Weighted linear regressions were conducted to examine the associations between fitness technology usage, physical activities, and communication behaviors on social media. Mediations were tested using PROCESS macro, a path-analysis based tool. Results Controlling for demographic and other known influences on PA, the findings revealed that users of fitness technology reported higher levels of both moderate PA (β = .41, p < 0.001) and strength training (β = .29, p < 0.001). Additionally, communication behaviors (i.e., sharing personal health information on social media and watching health-related videos on social media) mediated the relationship between fitness technology use and frequencies of strength training. Conclusion The results underscored the potential of fitness technologies in enhancing PA levels through promoting communication behaviors on social media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Zheng
- School of Communication and Journalism, the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Wenbo Li
- School of Communication and Journalism, the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
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Liu J, Chen S. Distal and proximal factors of wearable users' quantified-self dependence: A cognitive-behavioral model. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076241286560. [PMID: 39360241 PMCID: PMC11445773 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241286560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective While using self-tracking devices for physical health has become ubiquitous, the potential for quantified-self (QS) dependence as a detrimental outcome for mental health is under-explored. This study examined the mechanism of wearable users' QS dependence by investigating both the distal and proximal factors based on a cognitive-behavioral model. Methods A total of 535 wearable users aged 18-35 years were surveyed in this study. The surveys included control variable questions related to age, gender, monthly income, BMI, and wearable use experience. Key variable measures included distal factor (habitual use of wearables), proximal factors (perceived external regulation, recognition, and perceived irreplaceability), and perceived QS dependence. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test research hypotheses. Results The results revealed that habitual use of wearables as a distal factor alone was negatively associated with perceived QS dependence. However, it positively influenced perceived external regulation, recognition, and perceived irreplaceability, which in turn significantly contributed to perceived QS dependence, suggesting the suppression effect of the proximal factors. Conclusions The relationships between habitual use of wearables and QS dependence are complex. Although habitual use may seem apparently harmless, it can indirectly foster maladaptive cognitions, thereby promoting dependence. These findings underscore the potential threats of maladaptive cognitions that may arise from leveraging technology to promote physical health, thus offering guidance to technology designers for interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Liu
- School of Journalism and Communication, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuang Chen
- School of Journalism and Communication, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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Martín F, García-Fernández J, Valcarce-Torrente M, Bernal-García A, Gálvez-Ruiz P, Angosto-Sánchez S. Importance-performance analysis in fitness apps. A study from the viewpoint of gender and age. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1226888. [PMID: 37663841 PMCID: PMC10469511 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1226888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background We are currently undergoing a profound process of digital transformation that has favoured the development and use of apps in multiple facets of people's daily lives. In the fitness industry, this situation has facilitated the control of exercise and the maintenance of healthier lifestyles. However, it is not known how the perceived quality and importance of fitness apps vary for users based on gender and age, which is the objective of this study conducted among users of fitness centres. Methods By means of a convenience sample, 321 users from different centres of the boutique fitness chain Sano Centre (238 females and 83 males) took part in the study. They answered the 16 items of the MARS scale, distributed in four dimensions, in terms of importance and perceived quality. The existence of significant differences was analysed using non-parametrical statistics such as the U-Mann-Whitney (gender) and the H-Kruskal-Wallis (age). In addition, a cluster analysis, combining hierarchical and non-hierarchical methods, was analysed considering as a dependent variable the level of recommendation of fitness apps. Results Considering gender, in importance-performance analysis (IPA), credibility was the most important attribute for females and quality of information for males. In the case of age, credibility was the most important attribute in all the ranges. The cluster analysis established two groups (high and low recommendations of the fitness app). In importance, the first group scored better on all factors except entertainment and interest. In valuation, the scores were lower than on importance, especially in the low recommendation group. Conclusion Regarding usage behaviour, credibility is the factor to which users attach the highest importance and rating, regardless of gender and age. The main demand focuses on improving the gestural design and visual appeal, which will facilitate a better user experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Martín
- Physical Education and Sport Department, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville, Spain
| | | | | | - Ainara Bernal-García
- Department of Sport and Computer Science, Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Seville, Spain
| | - Pablo Gálvez-Ruiz
- Faculty of Law and Social Sciences, Valencian International University, Valencia, Spain
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Pang H, Shao Q. Unpacking the Potential Influence of Life Satisfaction on Network Heterogeneity, Emotional Exhaustion and Mobile App Fatigue: A Stressor-Strain-Outcome Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3500. [PMID: 36834196 PMCID: PMC9960269 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The ramifications of mobile apps' detrimental aspect on users' life satisfaction have garnered increased attention from academics. To probe the underlying association between life satisfaction and mobile app fatigue, this article builds a research model based on a stressor-strain-outcome approach. In addition, the study investigates the relationships between different dimensions of network heterogeneity, emotional exhaustion, and mobile app fatigue among users. Furthermore, the study uncovers the moderating influence of upward comparison, self-presentation, and privacy invasion on the association between life satisfaction and emotional exhaustion in the mobile app context. The study collected data in mainland China using a cross-sectional approach and analyzed the data using structural equation modeling. The findings demonstrate that life satisfaction is positively associated with self-presentation and negatively associated with upward comparison. Moreover, privacy invasion and upward comparison are positively correlated with emotional exhaustion, whilst self-presentation exerts no correlation with emotional exhaustion. Furthermore, upward comparison could mediate the association between life satisfaction and emotional exhaustion. The results provide fresh light on the mechanisms through which the life satisfaction of mobile app users and network heterogeneity might lead to emotional exhaustion and mobile app fatigue, highlighting important theoretical and practical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Pang
- School of New Media and Communication, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Qinglong Shao
- Institute of Chinese Studies, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
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Liu Y, Yi H, Jiang C. Enjoyment or Indulgence? Social Media Service Usage, Social Gratification, Self-Control Failure and Emotional Health. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1002. [PMID: 36673758 PMCID: PMC9859581 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Social networking site smartphone applications have been widely used among Chinese young adults. However, less is known about their effects on emotional health and the mechanisms through which they function. This study analyzes the relationship between college students' smartphone social networking service use patterns, social gratification, social media self-control failure, and emotional health. Data was collected from 360 college students in China via application log tracking and a self-administered questionnaire. Structural equation modeling results showed that, after controlling for demographic variables, the use of video social networking site smartphone applications was associated with decreased social gratification, and ultimately, adverse emotional health. Using social networking site smartphone applications late at night exhibited worse emotional health via more social media self-control failure. The implications for designing and using social media applications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Liu
- School of Journalism & Communication, Shanghai University, 149 Yanchang Drive, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Hongfa Yi
- School of Journalism & Communication, Shanghai University, 149 Yanchang Drive, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Crystal Jiang
- Department of Media and Communication, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Linking social features of fitness apps with physical activity among Chinese users: Evidence from self-reported and self-tracked behavioral data. Inf Process Manag 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ipm.2022.103096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Jiang LC, Sun M, Huang G. Uncovering the Heterogeneity in Fitness App Use: A Latent Class Analysis of Chinese Users. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:10679. [PMID: 36078395 PMCID: PMC9518310 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191710679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study examines fitness app use patterns and their correlates among Chinese users from the perspectives of uses and gratification theory and self-determination theory. Our sample comprised 632 users of WeRun, the fitness plugin of WeChat, the largest Chinese mobile social networking app; participants completed an online survey and provided self-tracked physical activity data, which were subjected to latent class analysis. Based on the four-class latent class model (which yielded the best model fit and the most interpretable results), 30.5%, 27.5%, 24.7%, and 17.3% of the users were categorized as light users, reward-oriented users, lifestyle-oriented users, and interaction-oriented users, respectively. Moreover, class membership was associated with gender, age, education, income, life satisfaction, autonomy, and platform-based motivations. There is a significant heterogeneity in fitness app use and exercise behaviors. Platform-based motivations and autonomy are important classification factors, as users are looking for specific kinds of gratification from their use of fitness apps. Demographics and individual characteristics are also explanatory factors for class membership. The study findings suggest that fitness app designers should segment users based on motivation and gratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Crystal Jiang
- Department of Media and Communication, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Mengru Sun
- College of Media and International Culture, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Guanxiong Huang
- Department of Media and Communication, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Sun M, Jiang LC, Huang G. Improving Body Satisfaction Through Fitness App Use: Explicating the Role of Social Comparison, Social Network Size, and Gender. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2022:1-12. [PMID: 35350945 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2022.2054099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Body dissatisfaction is prevalent worldwide, fueling the highly lucrative diet and plastic surgery industry, with many adverse outcomes. Yet, limited attention has been dedicated to noninvasive interventions that effectively enhance body satisfaction. We argue that, by altering the target of the social comparison process, people can shift their focus from body appearance to physical activity level. The present study investigated whether social comparison in terms of physical activity level provided by fitness apps could affect users' body satisfaction. A survey was conducted with 643 users of WeRun, the Chinese leading mobile fitness app. Subsequent analyses revealed that both upward and downward social comparison mediated the positive relationship between fitness app use and body satisfaction. Moreover, the users' social network size and gender played a moderating role in the social comparison processes. Fitness app use was positively related to downward comparison for male users; social network size moderated the relationship between fitness app use and upward comparison for female users. The utility of fitness apps in mitigating body dissatisfaction is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengru Sun
- College of Media and International Culture, Zhejiang University
- Department of Media and Communication, City University of Hong Kong
| | - Li Crystal Jiang
- Department of Media and Communication, City University of Hong Kong
| | - Guanxiong Huang
- Department of Media and Communication, City University of Hong Kong
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Zhou Y, J. H. Zhu J. How online health groups help you lose weight: The role of group composition and social contact. Digit Health 2022; 8:20552076221112838. [PMID: 35860616 PMCID: PMC9290157 DOI: 10.1177/20552076221112838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Online health-specific goal challenge groups gather people with the same health concerns and provide an environment to keep on track, exchange experiences, and compete for achievements. We examine how group health status composition influences social contact, and how both group health status composition and social contact affect individual health achievement. Using longitudinal data from 2479 online health challenge group users and their corresponding group information, we found that (a) compared with individual health status, group conditions (average weight status and member affiliation) are more strongly connected with social contact; (b) different mechanisms affect whether people participate in social contact and increase their participation, and weight loss; and (c) average group condition influences individuals’ weight loss through social contact. We emphasize the effect of group composition and the social contact process in health enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Zhou
- School of Journalism and Communication, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Media and Communication, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jonathan J. H. Zhu
- Department of Media and Communication, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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