While the Internet makes it easier and faster to get knowledge and information right to your doorstep, and with only lifting a finger (literally), it takes away one crucial piece of the pie, especially when we're talking about seeking behavior change - human contact. Yes, more information can get to me faster, but what if I want that personal support in order to put that information to good use? This study by Richardson, et al., took what we know about Internet-based behavior change interventions (that they can be widely disseminated and at low cost) and added a little piece of the pie (social support) back into the equation by allowing participants to communicate with each other in their own "online communities," therefore attempting to decrease attrition from a Internet-mediated walking program.

To read this article, please go to: http://www.ncpad.org/research/fact_sheet.php?sheet=860