An Evaluation of the Peer Helper Component of Go !: A Multimessage, Multi-"step" Obesity Prevention Intervention

Obesity prevention efforts typically involve changing eating and exercise behaviors as well as the physical and social environment in which those behaviors occur. Due to existing social networks, worksites are a logical choice for implementing such interventions. Purpose This article describes the d...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:American journal of health education 2014-01, Vol.45 (1), p.12-19
Main Authors: de Souza, Rebecca, Dauner, Kim Nichols, Goei, Ryan, LaCaille, Lara, Kotowski, Michael R., Schultz, Jennifer Feenstra, LaCaille, Rick, Versnik Nowak, Amy L.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Behavior Change
Diet
Eating Habits
Employees
Exercise
Health Education
Health Promotion
Hospitals
Intervention
Obesity
Peer Groups
Physical Environment
Prevention
Prevention programs
Program Evaluation
Qualitative Research
Role Models
Semi Structured Interviews
Social Environment
Work Environment
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Summary:Obesity prevention efforts typically involve changing eating and exercise behaviors as well as the physical and social environment in which those behaviors occur. Due to existing social networks, worksites are a logical choice for implementing such interventions. Purpose This article describes the development and implementation of a peer helper intervention, which was part of a multicomponent obesity prevention program conducted at a hospital worksite. It also presents qualitative evaluation findings of peer helper perceptions, roles, and institutional outcomes. Methods Fifty-one male and female employees were recruited to promote healthy eating and physical activity amongst their peers. They received health and communication skill-building training. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 20 peer helpers to evaluate this component of the intervention. Results Findings showed that peer helpers took on many helping roles, became effective role models, and contributed to creating health-promoting social and environmental changes at work. Discussion We found evidence for synergies between the peer helper component and other components of the campaign and present recommendations and questions related to best practices for peer helper interventions at worksites. Translation to Health Education Practice Training on the use of peer helpers and the incorporation of peer helper components into interventions is needed.
ISSN:1932-5037
2168-3751
DOI:10.1080/19325037.2013.853001