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Abstract
Research demonstrates social support is essential in weight loss and type 2 diabetes management. However, little is known about the impact of specific sources of support (family, friends, and/or significant other) and health outcomes. This study explored the relationship among these specific social support sources and intervention outcomes (weight loss, physical activity) within a Cooperative Extension delivered Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP). Regression models (linear and logistic) explored relationships among social support, demographics, and outcomes. There was a trend towards greater significant other support to be associated with greater percent weight loss (b = -2.09, SE = 1.17, t(39.0) = -1.80, p = 0.08) and meeting the 5% weight loss goal (OR = 5.71, χ2(1) = 3.28, p = 0.07). Lack of significance may suggest that no single source of support is superior or that the DPP’s group setting and curriculum strategies for seeking support are adequate regardless of social support.