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Heterogeneous peer effects and gender-based interventions for teenage obesity

Author

Listed:
  • Comola, Margherita
  • Dieye, Rokhaya
  • Fortin, Bernard

Abstract

This paper explores the role of gender heterogeneity in the social diffusion of obesity among adolescents and its policy implications. We propose a social interaction model which allows for gender-dependent heterogeneity in peer effects. Our empirical approach is consistent with the best response functions of a non-cooperative model where social interactions stem from the channel of pure spillover or pure conformity. We estimate the model using data on adolescent Body Mass Index and network-based interactions. Our approach allows us to account for network endogeneity. Our results show that peer effects are gender-dependent, and male students are particularly responsive to the weight of their female friends. According to simulations, reaching out to women results in an 8% increase in effectiveness in reducing overall BMI, based on the most conservative scenario. Thus, female-tailored interventions are likely to be more effective than a gender-neutral approach to fighting obesity in schools.

Suggested Citation

  • Comola, Margherita & Dieye, Rokhaya & Fortin, Bernard, 2025. "Heterogeneous peer effects and gender-based interventions for teenage obesity," Journal of Health Economics, Elsevier, vol. 102(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jhecon:v:102:y:2025:i:c:s016762962500058x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jhealeco.2025.103023
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Obesity; Social Networks; Gender; Heterogeneity;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • L12 - Industrial Organization - - Market Structure, Firm Strategy, and Market Performance - - - Monopoly; Monopolization Strategies
    • C31 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Cross-Sectional Models; Spatial Models; Treatment Effect Models; Quantile Regressions; Social Interaction Models
    • Z13 - Other Special Topics - - Cultural Economics - - - Economic Sociology; Economic Anthropology; Language; Social and Economic Stratification
    • D85 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Network Formation

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