Citation
Simpkins, S. D.; Schaefer, D. R.; Price, C. D.; & Vest, A. E. (2013). Adolescent friendships, BMI, and physical activity: Untangling selection and influence through longitudinal social network analysis. Journal of Research on Adolescence. vol. 23 (3) pp. 537-549 , PMCID: PMC382177Abstract
Bioecological theory suggests that adolescents' health is a result of selection and socialization processes occurring between adolescents and their microsettings. This study examines the association between adolescents' friends and health using a social network model and data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (N = 1,896, mean age = 15.97 years). Results indicated evidence of friend influence on BMI and physical activity. Friendships were more likely among adolescents who engaged in greater physical activity and who were similar to one another in BMI and physical activity. These effects emerged after controlling for alternative friend selection factors, such as endogenous social network processes and propinquity through courses and activities. Some selection effects were moderated by gender, popularity, and reciprocity. © 2012 The Authors © 2012 Society for Research on Adolescence.URL
http://dx.doi.org/10.1111%2Fj.1532-7795.2012.00836.xNotes
Cited By (since 1996):3Reference Type
Journal ArticleJournal Title
Journal of Research on AdolescenceAuthor(s)
Simpkins, S. D.Schaefer, D. R.
Price, C. D.
Vest, A. E.