scholarly journals Analyzing the Communication Interchange of Individuals With Disabilities Utilizing Facebook, Discussion Forums, and Chat Rooms: Qualitative Content Analysis of Online Disabilities Support Groups

10.2196/12667 ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. e12667 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nichole E Stetten ◽  
Kelsea LeBeau ◽  
Maria A Aguirre ◽  
Alexis B Vogt ◽  
Jazmine R Quintana ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Social Support ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Comparative Method ◽  
Online Communication ◽  
Community Support ◽  
The United States ◽  
Online Support ◽  
Discussion Forums ◽  
Chat Rooms ◽  
Persons With Disabilities

Background Approximately 1 in 5 adults in the United States are currently living with a form of disability. Although the Americans with Disabilities Act has published guidelines to help make developing technology and social networking sites (SNS) more accessible and user-friendly to people with a range of disabilities, persons with disabilities, on average, have less access to the internet than the general population. The quality, content, and medium vary from site to site and have been greatly understudied. Due to this, it is still unclear how persons with disabilities utilize various platforms of online communication for support. Objective The objective of this study was to qualitatively explore and compare the interactions and connections among online support groups across Facebook, discussion forums, and chat rooms to better understand how persons with disabilities were utilizing different SNS to facilitate communication interchange, disseminate information, and foster community support. Methods Facebook groups, discussion forums, and chat rooms were chosen based on predetermined inclusion criteria. Data collected included content posted on Facebook groups, forums, and chat rooms as well as the interactions among group members. Data were analyzed qualitatively using the constant comparative method. Results A total of 133 Facebook posts, 116 forum posts, and 60 hours of chat room discussions were collected and analyzed. In addition, 4 themes were identified for Facebook posts, 3 for discussion forums, and 3 for chat rooms. Persons with disabilities utilized discussion forums and chat rooms in similar ways, but their interactions on Facebook differed in comparison. They seem to interact on a platform based on the specific functions it offers. Conclusions Interactions on each of the platforms displayed elements of the 4 types of social support, indicating the ability for social support to be facilitated among SNS; however, the type of social support varied by platform. Findings demonstrate that online support platforms serve specific purposes that may not be interchangeable. Through participation on different platforms, persons with disabilities are able to provide and receive social support in various ways, without the barriers and constraints often experienced by this population.

scholarly journals Analyzing the Communication Interchange of Individuals With Disabilities Utilizing Facebook, Discussion Forums, and Chat Rooms: Qualitative Content Analysis of Online Disabilities Support Groups (Preprint)

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nichole E Stetten ◽  
Kelsea LeBeau ◽  
Maria A Aguirre ◽  
Alexis B Vogt ◽  
Jazmine R Quintana ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Social Support ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Comparative Method ◽  
Online Communication ◽  
Community Support ◽  
The United States ◽  
Online Support ◽  
Discussion Forums ◽  
Chat Rooms ◽  
Persons With Disabilities

BACKGROUND Approximately 1 in 5 adults in the United States are currently living with a form of disability. Although the Americans with Disabilities Act has published guidelines to help make developing technology and social networking sites (SNS) more accessible and user-friendly to people with a range of disabilities, persons with disabilities, on average, have less access to the internet than the general population. The quality, content, and medium vary from site to site and have been greatly understudied. Due to this, it is still unclear how persons with disabilities utilize various platforms of online communication for support. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to qualitatively explore and compare the interactions and connections among online support groups across Facebook, discussion forums, and chat rooms to better understand how persons with disabilities were utilizing different SNS to facilitate communication interchange, disseminate information, and foster community support. METHODS Facebook groups, discussion forums, and chat rooms were chosen based on predetermined inclusion criteria. Data collected included content posted on Facebook groups, forums, and chat rooms as well as the interactions among group members. Data were analyzed qualitatively using the constant comparative method. RESULTS A total of 133 Facebook posts, 116 forum posts, and 60 hours of chat room discussions were collected and analyzed. In addition, 4 themes were identified for Facebook posts, 3 for discussion forums, and 3 for chat rooms. Persons with disabilities utilized discussion forums and chat rooms in similar ways, but their interactions on Facebook differed in comparison. They seem to interact on a platform based on the specific functions it offers. CONCLUSIONS Interactions on each of the platforms displayed elements of the 4 types of social support, indicating the ability for social support to be facilitated among SNS; however, the type of social support varied by platform. Findings demonstrate that online support platforms serve specific purposes that may not be interchangeable. Through participation on different platforms, persons with disabilities are able to provide and receive social support in various ways, without the barriers and constraints often experienced by this population.

Reasons for attending support groups and organizational preferences: A replication study using the North American Scleroderma Support Group Survey

2019 ◽  
Vol 4 (3) ◽  
pp. 173-186 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mia Pépin ◽  
Linda Kwakkenbos ◽  
Marie-Eve Carrier ◽  
Sandra Peláez ◽  
Ghassan El-Baalbaki ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Social Support ◽  
Factor Analysis ◽  
Systemic Sclerosis ◽  
North America ◽  
Confirmatory Factor Analysis ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Support Group ◽  
Factor Model ◽  
The United States ◽  
Confirmatory Factor

Peer-facilitated support groups are an important source for receiving disease-related information and support for people with systemic sclerosis (or scleroderma). A recent survey explored reasons for attending systemic sclerosis support groups in Europe and Australia and used exploratory factor analysis to group reasons for attendance into three main themes: (1) interpersonal and social support, (2) disease treatment and symptom management strategies, and (3) other aspects of living with systemic sclerosis. The objective of the present study was to replicate this study in a sample of patients from North America using confirmatory factor analysis. A 30-item survey was used to assess reasons for attendance and organizational preferences among systemic sclerosis patients in Canada and the United States. In total, 171 members completed the survey. In the confirmatory factor analysis, the three-factor model showed good fit to the data (χ2(399) = 646.0, p < 0.001, Tucker–Lewis index = 0.97, comparative fit index = 0.97, root mean square error approximation = 0.06). On average, respondents rated 22 (73%) of 30 items as “important” or “very important” reasons for attending support groups. Among organizational preferences, respondents emphasized the importance of the ability to share feelings and concerns, as well as educational aspects. Findings of our study suggest that reasons for attending support groups are similar for patients from Europe, Australia, and North America and that support groups should facilitate social support as well as disease education. These results inform the development of training programs for current and future systemic sclerosis support group leaders across the globe.

scholarly journals Design, Delivery, Maintenance, and Outcomes of Peer-to-Peer Online Support Groups for People With Chronic Musculoskeletal Disorders: Systematic Review

10.2196/15822 ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 22 (4) ◽  
pp. e15822
Author(s):  
Liam R Maclachlan ◽  
Kathryn Mills ◽  
Belinda J Lawford ◽  
Thorlene Egerton ◽  
Jenny Setchell ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Social Support ◽  
Systematic Review ◽  
Health Literacy ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Peer To Peer ◽  
Risk Of Bias ◽  
Online Support ◽  
Online Support Groups ◽  
Musculoskeletal Conditions ◽  
Quantitative Studies

Background Online support groups (OSGs) are one way for people with chronic diseases, their family or friends, and health professionals to communicate, gain information, and provide social support. As the number of peer-to-peer OSGs for chronic musculoskeletal conditions grows, it is important to gain insight into the different designs of groups available, who is accessing them, if and how they may be effective, and what strategies are being used to implement or increase consumer engagement. Objective The objectives of this systematic review of people with musculoskeletal conditions were to (1) describe the design features (functions, usage options, moderation, and expert input) of peer-to-peer OSGs, (2) describe the characteristics of the individuals using peer-to-peer OSGs, (3) synthesize the evidence on outcomes of participation, and (4) identify strategies used in the delivery and maintenance of OSGs. Methods A search comprising terms related to the population (people with musculoskeletal disorders) and the intervention (peer-to-peer OSGs) was conducted in 6 databases. Results were filtered from 1990 (internet inception) to February 2019. Studies identified in the search were screened according to predefined eligibility criteria using a 2-step process. Quantitative studies were appraised by 2 reviewers using the Risk Of Bias In Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions tool. Qualitative studies were appraised by 2 different reviewers using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. Extracted data were synthesized narratively. Results We examined 21 studies with low to moderate risk of bias. Of these studies, 13 studies included OSGs hosted on public platforms, 11 studies examined OSGs that were conducted in English, and 6 studies used moderators or peer leaders to facilitate engagement. Studies either reported the number of OSG members (n=1985 across all studies) or the number of posts (range: 223-200,000). The majority of OSG members were females who were not full-time employees and with varied levels of education. There were no randomized controlled trials measuring the efficacy of OSGs. Qualitative and quantitative studies identified empowerment, social support, self-management behavior, and health literacy as primary constructs to measure OSG efficacy. Neutral or marginal improvement was reported in these constructs. Sharing experiences and a greater level of engagement appeared to have an important influence on OSGs efficacy. The extent to which members posted on the website influenced engagement. Conclusions Across a diverse range of designs, languages, included features, and delivery platforms, peer-to-peer OSGs for chronic musculoskeletal conditions attract predominantly female participants of all ages and education levels. The level of participation of a member appears to be related to their perceived benefit, health literacy, and empowerment. Future studies are needed to identify which design and maintenance strategies have superior efficacy and whether there are concomitant improvements in health outcomes for people with chronic musculoskeletal conditions resulting from participation in OSGs. Trial Registration PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42018090326; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42018090326

Do online support groups help individuals affected by HIV/AIDS?: A systematic review of the quantitative and qualitative literature (Preprint)

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Neil Stewart Coulson ◽  
Heather Buchanan
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Online Communication ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Qualitative Studies ◽  
Online Support ◽  
Illness Management ◽  
Online Support Groups ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Hiv Aids

BACKGROUND Online support groups provide opportunities for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS to seek information, advice and support from peers. However, if and how engagement with online support groups helps individuals affected by HIV/AIDS remains unclear. OBJECTIVE To systematically review the evidence (both quantitative and qualitative) around the benefits of online support groups for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS in terms of psychosocial wellbeing and/or illness management. In addition, the review sought to identify and describe any negative aspects experienced by individuals as well as the types of social support exchanged within such online groups. METHODS A systematic review of English language articles was undertaken using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Databases searched included Medline, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, CENTRAL (Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials) and SCOPUS. Key findings were critically synthesized using a narrative and thematic approach. RESULTS 22 papers met the inclusion criteria from an initial pool of 4501 abstracts. These papers included 5 quantitative, 2 mixed-methods and 15 qualitative studies published between 2007 and 2019. CONCLUSIONS Some cross-sectional and qualitative studies suggest there may be an association between engagement and a range of psychosocial processes and outcomes. However, studies with robust methodological designs are needed to definitively establish whether HIV/AIDS-related online support groups improve psychosocial well-being and/or illness management. Qualitative data highlights users can have negative experiences in terms of interpersonal conflict and the challenges of encountering negative content. In addition, there may be aspects of the internet-mediated nature of the online communication which compromise member experiences. Finally, HIV/AIDS-related online support groups are venues through which individuals can solicit support, most commonly informational or emotional support. Future research should seek to examine the impact of engagement with online support groups over time including appropriate control or comparison groups. CLINICALTRIAL N/A

Online Support Group Participation and Social Support: Incorporating Identification and Interpersonal Bonds

2019 ◽  
Vol 50 (5) ◽  
pp. 593-622 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yaguang Zhu ◽  
Keri K. Stephens
Keyword(s):  
Social Support ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Perceived Social Support ◽  
Group Communication ◽  
Mediating Effect ◽  
Online Support ◽  
Online Support Groups ◽  
Online Support Group ◽  
The Relationship ◽  
Practical Implications

An increasing number of people with chronic diseases exchange social support using online support groups (OSGs). However, there is little understanding of group communication mechanisms that underpin the relationship between OSG participation and social support. Drawing on Prentice, Miller, and Lightdale’s common-identity and common-bond framework, we propose and test a theoretical model that explains group communication mechanisms through which members’ participation influences their perceived social support. In the process, we identified and empirically validated a three-factor solution for an OSG participation scale. Based on 356 users across 12 popular OSGs, we find that two group communication mechanisms—identification with the community and interpersonal bonds with other members—mediate the relationship between OSG participation and perceived social support. Specifically, identification has a stronger mediating effect than interpersonal bonds in the relationship between OSG participation and perceived social support. We also discuss theoretical and practical implications.

30 of the Communications Decency Act

2010 ◽  
pp. 363-371
Author(s):  
Joshua Azriel
Keyword(s):  
Online Communication ◽  
State Courts ◽  
Court Cases ◽  
Discussion Forums ◽  
Internet Communication ◽  
Federal Law ◽  
Appellate Courts ◽  
Chat Rooms ◽  
Internet Service ◽  
The Law

As a federal law, the 1996 Communications Decency Act (CDA) criminalizes any offensive content posted on a computer server that is operated by an Internet Service Provider (ISP). The law exempts ISPs and other “users” from any liability for the illegal content that is posted by third parties as long as they make a “good faith” effort to restrict the information. Plaintiffs, who claim to be victims of offensive messages and sued ISPs, consistently lost their court cases. District and appellate courts have upheld Section 230’s provisions and Congress’s authority to regulate in this area of online communication. The CDA applies to many forms of Internet communication; for example, websites, chat rooms, discussion forums, wikis, and blogs. This chapter reviews the law, examines how federal and state courts have interpreted the CDA regarding ISPs, describes under what conditions an ISP can be held responsible for illegal content, analyzes the “user” portion of the law, and presents the legal dangers of providing immunity for “users” who post illegal content online.

Online Social Support Groups/Communities

2022 ◽  
pp. 349-369
Author(s):  
Liza Ngenye ◽  
Kevin Wright
Keyword(s):  
Social Support ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Online Support ◽  
Online Support Groups ◽  
Health Issues ◽  
Online Social Support ◽  
Health Concerns ◽  
Online Networks ◽  
Advantages And Disadvantages ◽  
Health Related

Numerous studies over the past two decades suggest that people with a variety of health concerns are increasingly turning to online networks for social support. This has led to the rise of online support groups/communities for people facing health concerns. Researchers have found that these groups/communities provide patients, disease survivors, and caregivers a number of advantages and disadvantages in terms of mobilizing social support for their health-related concerns. This chapter will examine these issues in greater detail as well as the theoretical and practical implications of this body of research for patients who use online support communities to help cope with and manage a variety of health issues. It will provide an overview of online social support and health outcomes, discuss key processes and theoretical explanations for the efficacy of online support communities for people facing health concerns, and the limitations of this body of research as well as an agenda for future communication research on health-related online support groups/communities.

scholarly journals An Exploratory Study of Single and Coupled Lesbian Mothers' Experiences with Social Support

2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 269-287
Author(s):  
Laura Descartes
Keyword(s):  
Social Support ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Health Care Providers ◽  
Service Providers ◽  
Community Support ◽  
Care Providers ◽  
Informational Support ◽  
Lesbian Mothers ◽  
Positive Experiences ◽  
Mothers Experiences

This exploratory interview study reveals ten lesbian mothers’ experiences with different forms of social support. Ten lesbian mothers, five single and five who were part of couples, all with young children and living in southern Ontario, discussed their experiences with emotional, instrumental, and informational support from family, friends and neighbours, the LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning) community, support groups, day cares and schools, health care providers, and online and print resources. Most women had largely positive experiences with family and friends but experienced more variability in the other domains. The mothers’ perceptions of potential support sources’ acceptance of diversity and efforts at inclusivity particularly influenced their willingness to access organized forms of support. The single lesbian mothers’ experiences differed from the coupled lesbian mothers’, although there was overlap. Organizations, service providers, and authors providing assistance and information to prospective and current parents are encouraged to continue to increase their awareness of and efforts at including all families.

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