Longitudinal analysis of virtual community perceptions of cohesion: The role of cooperation, communication, and competition

Annmarie A. Lyles, Colleen Loomis, Scherezade K. Mama, Sameer Siddiqi, Rebecca Lee

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Online, virtual group interactions may help adherence to health promotion programs. The purpose of this study was to explore longitudinal relationships among dimensions of group cohesion and group-interaction variables to inform and improve group-based strategies within programs aimed at promoting physical activity in virtual communities. In all, 56 online virtual users completed a group dynamics–based physical activity promotion intervention and assessments of group cohesion and group interaction at baseline and 4 weeks. Friendly competition and cooperation were consistently strong predictors of cohesion. Facilitating a sense of friendly competition and cooperation may increase engagement in physical activity programs by bolstering group cohesion.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1677-1688
Number of pages12
JournalJournal of Health Psychology
Volume23
Issue number13
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 1 2018

Keywords

  • group dynamics
  • group interaction
  • physical activity
  • virtual community

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Applied Psychology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Longitudinal analysis of virtual community perceptions of cohesion: The role of cooperation, communication, and competition'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this