On-line health communities. Wright and Bell (2003) Flashcards
Weak ties
Relationships that are engaged with frequently on a regular basis but are not necessarily close relationships. Offline these are traditionally neighbours or co-workers.
Strong ties
Close or intimate relationships such as family and friends
Health concerns and internet expansion
The rapid growth and accessibility of the internet has meant that individuals who have similar health concerns or worries can seek information and support one another on an on-line community.
A benefit of seeking health support on-line is
The internet gives health information and support seekers an opportunity to divulge personal health information without the face to face risk of an emotional response or less judgemental responses.
The Buffering Model
Dean & Lin, 1977
Suggests that social support shields individuals from the negative effects of stress such as a weakened immune system or depression.
The Main Effect Model (Aneshensel & Stone, 1982)
The realitonships between social support and the outcomes are more direct than the buffering effect
On-line health communities do provide support as
It is a means for individuals to communicate about the epxeriences that causes them stress. It has been shown by Spiegel, Bloom, Kraemer & Gottheil, 1989; Walsh-Burke, 1992 to manage psychosocial stressors.
Another benefit of seeking help with on-health communities
Is that there is less social status and stigma on the internet and so more heterogeneous relationships meaning more diverse points of view and information.
Negative of anonymous communities
The anonymity can open opportunities for individuals to post abusive, hostile and derogative posts.
Negative of seeking help on online communities
The information given by other members are not necessarily coming from professionals and so may not necessarily be accurate for the information seeker
