Time-Dependent Effects of Relational Composition on the Success of Online Wellness Challenge Groups

Abstract

This study aims to examine time-dependent effects of group-level relational composition, including the number and cohesion of prior online relationships and multiple-group membership (MGM), on the success of online wellness challenge groups (OWCGs) in promoting positive health behavior among group members. Bridging literature on online groups and social networks for health, this study collected data on 1,252 OWCGs and conducted analyses on how relational composition affected group success longitudinally over the life span of the OWCGs. The results showed that the number of prior online relationships within a group had a positive but decreasing effect over time on group success, whereas cohesion was not a significant predictor. MGM, indicating members' concurrent participation in multiple OWCGs, showed a positive effect on group success at the beginning but a negative effect towards the end of a group's life span. Theoretical and practical implications for designing successful OWCGs were discussed.