Getting "plugged in": A network analysis of health-information seeking among "stay-at-home moms"

This report focuses on health-oriented conversations evident in informal interpersonal networks. This study was an investigation of the network structure, the nature of relationships, the contents of interactions, and the impact of support manifested in a "stay-at-home" mothers' toddlers' playground. Diffusion of innovations theory (Rogers, 1983) served as the theoretical and organizational lens. Members' roles, as well as characteristics of opinion leaders, were identified via sociograms and enriched with anecdotal evidence from personal interviews and participant observation. Ideas regarding how institutions can utilize this information and these networks are offered.