“An estimated 90 million Americans have participated in some type of computer-mediated support group and that one in four people seeking information about disease join such groups” (Horrigan & Rainie, 2002; Levy & Strombeck, 2002)
With the number of cancer cases increasing, people are seeking to connect with others facing the same health issues through online support networks. Through these networks, people are able to share their concerns about having cancer, provide support to each other, and discuss their medical situation. Websites such as Yahoo! Groups and WebMD, for example, provide a forum for individuals with specific health concerns can reach out and connect with others who are facing the same health challenges and concerns.
Studies indicate that there are several benefits online support networks provide during times of hardships due to health concerns. One’s preferences for interaction with people that are not close to them likely involve: (a) access to different viewpoints; (b) reduced risk; (c) access to objective feedback from others; and (d) reduced role obligations. Different viewpoints from people who are facing the same illness, perhaps even the same chemotherapy treatments, can greatly reduce anxiety over fear of not knowing what to expect. Many support group discussions compare treatments, the side affects of these treatments, what is involved with radiation therapy, loosing one’s hair and how each one has coped through the tough times. According to Wen et al, (2011), some individuals feel having greater anonymity provides a better environment for disclosing and discussing sensitive personal health issues. Also, individuals are able to find people who have the same type of cancer regardless of how rare their particular cancer might be. Finding people who “have been there” can be comforting and offer encouragement. At times it is difficult for a family member or friend to understand why someone would reach out to strangers for support.
Family members can sometimes feel uncomfortable talking about the harsh realities that come with a diagnosis of cancer and can try to steer away from discussions about problems, refrain from in-depth discussion, or avoid interaction all together. Cancer patients who have been told they will not recover from their illness might need to discuss some hard issues like death or creating a will and family members are not always able to discuss these issues due to their own grief and fear.
In conclusion, there are many benefits online cancer support groups provide. Many times it is difficult to receive the type of support and information an individual needs from those close to them. Online support groups are a great resource for information and can help to alleviate stress.
Prezi Presentation is located at: http://prezi.com/uwrvi44pibsf/lets-talk/
Reference:
Wen, K., McTavish, F., Kreps, G., Wise, M., Gustafson, D. (2011), From Diagnosis to Death: A Case Study of Coping with Breast Cancer as Seen Through Online Discussion Group Messages, Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, pp. 331-361.
Wright, K., Rains, S., Banas, J., (2010), Weak-Tie Support Network Preference and Perceived Life Stress Among Participants in Health Related, Computer-Mediated Support Groups, Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, pp. 606-624.
No comments:
Post a Comment