Journal article
Parents Managing Clubfoot: A Content Analysis of Internet-based Social Support Behaviors with a Focus on Uncertainty Management and Health Communication
The International Journal of Interdisciplinary Social and Community Studies, Vol.7(3), pp.83-101
2013
DOI: 10.18848/2324-7576/CGP/v07i03/53485
Abstract
Using established categories of social support and the Uncertainty Management Theory, this interdisciplinary study situated at the intersection of social science, medicine, information technology and health communication explored the types of social support exchanged by caregivers in a virtual online support community for parents of children with clubfoot. A systematic content analysis of 775 messages indicated that the online environment allows participants to receive and provide a wide range of social support, particularly informational, emotional and esteem support. Results reveal what social support behaviors members of the online support community (OSC) exhibit as a result of requests from their peers, thus identifying what types of health communication may be effective in such settings. Furthermore, OSCs provide a great opportunity for scholars and practitioners to learn about the experiences of caregivers of children with health conditions and explore where gaps in health communication may exist. It is suggested that online support communities are key channels for future health research, communication and interdisciplinary practice
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- Parents Managing Clubfoot: A Content Analysis of Internet-based Social Support Behaviors with a Focus on Uncertainty Management and Health Communication
- Creators
- Florin OprescuShelly CampoJohn LoweJulie AndsagerJose A Morcuende
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Publication Details
- The International Journal of Interdisciplinary Social and Community Studies, Vol.7(3), pp.83-101
- DOI
- 10.18848/2324-7576/CGP/v07i03/53485
- ISSN
- 2324-7576
- eISSN
- 2324-7584
- Language
- English
- Date published
- 2013
- Academic Unit
- Graduate College Admin and Gen; Orthopedics and Rehabilitation; Communication Studies; Community and Behavioral Health; Stead Family Department of Pediatrics
- Record Identifier
- 9984063111302771
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