Abstract
Research has repeatedly demonstrated the ability of social networks, interpersonal discussion, and perceived social norms to shape health-related outcomes. There are still substantial gaps, however, in understanding the theoretical mechanism that holds these components together, as well as the boundary conditions of their effects. Employing ego-network analysis with a representative sample of Illinois residents (N = 711) and focusing on the context of COVID-19 vaccine adherence, this study constructs a comprehensive framework to examine the direct, indirect, and conditional relationships linking social capital within networks, factual knowledge, and vaccination. Overall, the results point to the ability of tight-knit networks to influence knowledge and behavior for better or worse, depending on the composition of the network and its conversational valence. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 3355-3364 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Health communication |
Volume | 39 |
Issue number | 13 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2024 |
Funding
This work was supported by the Peter G. Peterson Foundation through Communication Ecology: Using a New Method to Guide Health Policies in an Information-Rich Environment (Walter/Horv\u00E1t). The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not represent official views of the Peter G. Peterson Foundation.
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Health(social science)
- Communication