Impact of social networks on healthy behaviors: An example of breastfeeding in western China

Most researchers agree that social networks have a positive impact on people’s health. However, more studies are needed to explore how social networks affect health. Some researchers argue that networks promote health by improving people’s healthy behaviors. However, this argument needs further empirical testing. Based on a large-scale survey in western China, this article studies the relationship between social networks and one particular form of healthy behavior, namely breastfeeding. Our results show that a new mother with a network consisting mainly of strong ties is more likely to obtain social support for breastfeeding her infant, especially in early infancy. Meanwhile, if there are any medical professionals in a mother’s social network, she will be more likely to breastfeed her baby. We conclude that social networks enhance people’s healthy behaviors by providing social support and information and thus can be helpful in improving people’s general health.