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Dying to Fit In: How Interpersonal Networks Shape COVID-19 Health Outcomes Through Discussion and Social Norms.

Stefanie Z DemetriadesNathan WalterEmőke-Ágnes HorvátRod Abhari
Published in: Health communication (2024)
Research has repeatedly demonstrated the ability of social networks, interpersonal discussion, and perceived social norms to shape health-related outcomes. There are still substantial gaps, however, in understanding the theoretical mechanism that holds these components together, as well as the boundary conditions of their effects. Employing ego-network analysis with a representative sample of Illinois residents ( N  = 711) and focusing on the context of COVID-19 vaccine adherence, this study constructs a comprehensive framework to examine the direct, indirect, and conditional relationships linking social capital within networks, factual knowledge, and vaccination. Overall, the results point to the ability of tight-knit networks to influence knowledge and behavior for better or worse, depending on the composition of the network and its conversational valence. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Keyphrases
  • healthcare
  • mental health
  • network analysis
  • coronavirus disease
  • sars cov
  • palliative care
  • physical activity
  • blood brain barrier
  • adipose tissue
  • social support
  • cross sectional
  • weight loss