Online Help: Cancer Patients Participate in a Computer-Mediated Support Group

Abstract

This study investigated a computer mediated support group of six breast cancer patients. For a three-month period, patients used home computers to connect to a computer bulletin board on which they read messages from and posted messages to each other. The patients had no difficulty learning to use the computer and used it an average of one hour a week. The patients discussed their medical conditions, shared personal concerns, and offered support. This online approach provided many features of traditional face-to-face support groups.

Social support in cyberspace: A content analysis of communication within a Huntington's disease online support group

“…In particular, informational and emotional support were the most frequently provided, and appeared to be linked to the unique challenges faced by individuals who are affected by HD. The prevalence of both these categories of support within the present data is consistent with content analyses of bulletin boards for other chronic conditions [4,33,34]. In addition, it mirrors findings from the literature on face-to-face self-help groups [35].…”

Happier Together: Integrating a Wellness Application into a Social Network Site

“…Internet-based support groups for both patients and caregivers have also received substantial research attention [e.g., 2,5,19,20]. These online support groups offer participants a place for social support and sharing of knowledge.…”

Evaluation of an internet support group for women with primary breast cancer

“…27 The few published reports of web-based breast cancer groups have been either in the form of surveys, analysis of participants' communications, 28,29 or uncontrolled studies. 30 Randomized trials are needed to demonstrate the effectiveness of these interventions, particularly regarding their psychologic benefits.…”

“…Weinberg et al 29 investigated the impact of a computer bulletin board on six women with breast carcinoma. They found that group members actively used the support group to discuss their medical condition, offer support to each other, and to share their personal concerns.…”