Paying people to change their behaviour can work, at least in the short term – so says a review of the use of financial incentives in health, published today in the online version of the British Medical Journal.
Personal financial incentives are increasingly being used to motivate patients and general populations to change their behaviour, most often as part of schemes aimed at reducing rates of obesity, smoking, and other addictive behaviours. Opinion on their use varies, with incentives being described both as “key to reducing smoking, alcohol and obesity rates” and as “a form of bribery” and “rewarding people for unhealthy behaviour.” So do financial incentives work? Theresa Marteau, professor of health psychology at Kings College, London, lead author of the review suggests there are many unanswered questions about this approach link to read the report
A look at some of the flawed thinking that prompts people who believe in certain non-scientific concepts to advise others who don’t to be more open-minded.
Every day millions of people use social netwo nect with old friends and find new ones. These types of sites can also make dieters more successful.
“When we embark on a weight loss program we want encouragement, motivation and results. Websites offer so many opportunities to track the sorts of information we know helps keep our weight in check,” said Stefanie Barthmare, a licensed professional counselor with The Methodist Weight Management Center in Houston.
‘These social networking sites are a perfect place for people to record their progress, find others in the same boat or join weight loss groups. There are also blogs and chat rooms where people can swap recipes, share stories and goals or just offer support.” [continue reading…]
Middle school youth are engaging in sexual intercourse as early as age 12, according to a study by researchers at The University of Texas School of Public Health.
Results from this study are published in the April issue of Journal of School Health. [continue reading…]
