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. 2017;48(4):264-277.
doi: 10.1080/19325037.2017.1316693. Epub 2017 May 23.

Examining the Relationship between Online Social Capital and eHealth Literacy: Implications for Instagram Use for Chronic Disease Prevention among College Students

Samantha R Paige  1 , Michael Stellefson  1 , Beth H Chaney  2 , J Don Chaney  3 , Julia M Alber  1 , Chelsea Chappell  1 , Adam E Barry  4
Affiliations

Examining the Relationship between Online Social Capital and eHealth Literacy: Implications for Instagram Use for Chronic Disease Prevention among College Students

Samantha R Paige et al. Am J Health Educ. 2017.

Abstract

Background: College students actively seek online health information and use Instagram, an image- and video-based social networking website, to build social networks grounded in trust and behavioral norms (social capital), which have the potential to prevent chronic disease.

Purpose: This study aimed to: (1) examine how intensity of Instagram use moderates the relationship between eHealth Literacy and online social capital in college students, and (2) discuss how Instagram can be used as a social awareness platform for chronic disease prevention among college students.

Methods: Hierarchical regression analyses were conducted to analyze web-based survey data from a random sample of college students (N=327).

Results: Online bridging social capital was associated with greater eHealth Literacy (P<.05) and intensity of Instagram use (P<.001), when controlling for socio-demographic variables. The relationship between eHealth Literacy and online bridging social capital was strongest among respondents' with average (P<.01) and high (P<.01) intensity Instagram use, as compared to low Instagram intensity.

Discussion: High intensity of Instagram may strengthen college students' low eHealth Literacy, especially when interacting with heterogeneous connections with weaker ties.

Translation to health education practice: Health education specialists should continue to explore how college students' intensity of Instagram use can be strengthened to build bridging online social capital, and ultimately prevent chronic disease.

Keywords: Chronic Disease; Instagram; Social Capital; eHealth Literacy.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Online bridging social capital frequencies, % (N = 327)
Figure 2
Figure 2
Online bonding social capital frequencies, % (N = 327)
Figure 3
Figure 3
Results of the interaction between eHealth literacy and intensity of Instagram use on online bridging social capital
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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