Peer Perceptions of Adolescent Health Behaviors

Abstract

Perceptions adolescents form of peers in relation to modeled health behaviors were examined. Five hundred ten adolescents, ages 12-15, from eight midwest schools were shown a slide of a male or female adolescent displaying a health behavior artifact (apple, tennis racket, cigarette, beer can), or without an artifact and asked to rate the model on 16 characteristics using a semantic differential scale. Data were factor analyzed using principle components analysis and a 2x2x5 MANOVA. Results indicated that models appeared less mature when holding a beer can or cigarette. In addition, the female model was rated more popular than the male in the control and beer can depictions. The influence of modeled behaviors on traits adolescents want to develop must be understood to present effective health education programs. Educational efforts should include consideration of the perceptions adolescents hold of their peers' health behaviors.

Adolescent Health Behaviors and Related Factors: A Review

“…None of the studies reviewed were qualitative by design or methodology. Only two studies (Miller, Thomson, & Holcomb, 1988; Ransom, 1992) solicited responses to open‐ended questions. Miller et al (1988) noted that the most frequent response to an item regarding lifestyle change was “getting more exercise.”Ransom (1992) referred to the use of an open‐ended questionnaire but did not report subjects' responses.…”

“…Only two studies (Miller, Thomson, & Holcomb, 1988; Ransom, 1992) solicited responses to open‐ended questions. Miller et al (1988) noted that the most frequent response to an item regarding lifestyle change was “getting more exercise.”Ransom (1992) referred to the use of an open‐ended questionnaire but did not report subjects' responses. In the study by Boehm et al (1993), focus groups were used to develop the questionnaire and some information obtained from these sessions was included in the discussion section of the article.…”

“…The majority of the studies (79%) used both descriptive and inferential statistical procedures for analysis of data. Only one study (Ransom, 1992) reported specific calculations for statistical power and effect size. Several researchers mentioned effect size (Chassin et al, 1989; Dent, Galaif, Sussman, & Stacy, 1993; Jemmott & Jemmott, 1992; Krick & Sobal, 1990; Waldron, Lye, & Brandon, 1991).…”

“…Particular health behaviors during adolescence are influenced by a number of important factors. These factors include gender, family structure, parental and peer relationships, personal knowledge and value, academic achievement, perceived susceptibility and vulnerability, and age (Boehm et al, 1993; Dusenbury et al, 1991; Eisen & Zellman, 1986; Kasen et al, 1992; O'Rourke et al, 1984; Ransom, 1992). The specific relationships and linkages among these multiple factors, however, have yet to be clearly defined.…”