The Use of Social Networks and Physical Activity Patterns of Adolescents in Obesity Therapy - A Sociodemographic Stratified Analysis

Abstract

The improvement of existing obesity treatment for children and adolescents requires knowledge about social and personal conditions, individual needs, and life style. From particular importance are information about physical activity and media use, in order to target and adjust content and methods of therapy interventions. In 2013, 510 adolescents aged 11 to 17 years participated in a survey on above named factors. Physical activities were conducted with friends (64%) and in sport clubs (43%). Girls (OR 0.55) and children of unemployed parents (OR 0.28) had reduced chances to participate in sports clubs. Through social media social networks, primarily Facebook, were widely used. The use of the network functions differed among socio-demographic groups. Participants who completed obesity treatments expressed their desire to share their experience with other treatment participants (79%) and with the therapy team (37%). The results indicate the need for individualised treatment approaches.