The ‘contagion’ of social networks

By Eric Jaffe

"Peer groups might influence such behaviors as smoking and obesity. Studies haven’t been conclusive, however."

"The old folk concept that our personal health behaviors rub off on those around us has received a staggering amount of scientific support of late. Over the last few years, study after study has shown that weight gain, drug and alcohol use, even loneliness and depression aren’t islands unto themselves but are powerfully contagious — capable of spreading within our social networks just as germs scatter after a sneeze. ..."

Full text article available at:
http://www.latimes.com/health/la-he-social-networks-health-20100913,0,71...