The symbolic meanings of specific behaviors within social contexts influence health habits in other ways. For example, heavy alcohol consumption or overeating may be highly normative within some contexts and represent (perhaps valued and desired or required) ways of connecting to others. Family relationships often center around shared meals, which can symbolize family connections, a shared culture, and even love (Sobal & Nelson 2003). Religious ties may be especially likely to operate through symbolic meanings. Some religious groups (e.g., Mormans, Baptists) encourage healthy behavior through doctrine (e.g., alcohol is sinful). Religious attendance may affect behavior because it exposes people to messages about proper behavior and reinforces these messages through informal networks (Strawbridge et al. 2001).
