Social support and illness perceptions among users of online communities

Abstract

Objective To compare the usefulness of several sources of support and illness perceptions among users of online communities. Methods A web-based survey (the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire and questions about socio-demographic and illness related variables and degree of support from several sources: health professionals, family, electronic groups) was completed by 681 participants (nine illness groups). Results All groups except diabetes perceived electronic communities as the most useful source of informational support and rheumatic diseases group perceived the lowest support from health professionals. Diabetes and cancer groups had the greatest control and coherence beliefs. Conclusion Exploring online support groups is a new way to understand the patient’s illness experience.