Food & Health Alliance

Toscos, T.; Faber, A.; An, S. & Gandhi, M. P.  School of Informatics and Department of Computer Sciences, Indiana University.  (2006).  

Chick Clique provides information at opportune times to encourage adolescent girls to improve exercise behaviour. 

This study aimed to collect, share and compare personal fitness information in order to effect activity levels and health awareness.  The study aimed to investigate the impact of peer pressure and persuasive technology (e.g. text messaging) on physical activity participation.

The intervention used techniques involving mobile phone technology, in order to change participants goal setting, self-monitoring, etc. Using a combination of pedometer and mobile phone sent results of other girls’ number of steps and used the mobile phone to persuade healthy food choices. 

Information about the group behaviour was sent out at opportune times via text messages.  It was anticipated that participants would be inspired and encouraged by other participants to meet goals and increase their activity levels. 

Method: Two groups of adolescent females participated in the study, the first consisting of four 15 to 17 year old girls and the second consisting of three 13 year old girls.  Steps taken were measured by a pedometer.   Girls also completed a questionnaire on their attitudes towards participating in the study. 

Findings:  A key attribute of this study was the use of competition in order to encourage adolescent girls to exercise.  Girls reported that the pedometers were easy to use and that the information contained in the text messages was useful.  The girls rated the pedometer alone as being able to change behaviour, not necessarily the participation in the Chick Clique programme. 

Implication:  Further large-scale investigation of the use of this type of intervention needs to be carried out in order to confirm the programmes efficacy.  This media application allows for monitoring and cooperation in a health and personal fitness arena in order to increase physical activity levels.