Using Facebook in a Healthy Lifestyle Intervention: Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy

Abstract

The purpose of this pilot quasi-experimental study was to examine the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of using Facebook in a 10-week lifestyle intervention with Head Start caregiver–preschooler dyads to improve healthy behaviors and reduce body mass index. Sixty-nine dyads participated with 39 in the intervention group. Average preschooler attendance rate for the Head Start center-based program was 77%, and caregiver participation rate was 87%. About 94% of the caregivers were satisfied with the program, and 97% would recommend the program to others and/or participate again. The intervention decreased preschoolers’ body mass index z score (Cohen’s d = –.30) and screen time (d = –.21), and increased their fruit and vegetable intake (d = .40) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (d = .42). The intervention increased caregivers’ fruit and vegetable intake (d = .40). The intervention is feasible, and preliminary efficacy is encouraging, but further investigation using a rigorous study design is warranted.