Mechanisms of influence for weight loss in popular women’s health media: a content analysis of health and fitness magazines

The present study identifies persuasive message variables from social cognitive and persuasion theories in top-selling women’s health and fitness magazines. Findings from a content analysis of articles (n = 240) reveal that message efficacy, evidence types (narrative and statistical), and issue-relevant sources were widespread throughout the sample with at least one persuasive element appearing in 84% of the articles examined. Results suggest magazine messages may be instilling false confidence in one’s ability to achieve unattainable results through impractical strategies and time periods. The current study informs health message design by defining and operationalizing intrinsic message properties representing theoretical constructs central to health-behavior change.