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Benefits of online support
Online support groups provide an alternative mode of support by connecting a diverse network of people dealing with similar issues. Online communication provides various options for support, including e-mail lists, bulletin boards, real-time chat and blogs (online journals). Members can receive a great deal of information and support without some of the barriers of traditional face-to-face support groups. Some people may be unable to attend traditional support groups due to physical restraints (geographic distance, being homebound or lack of transportation), scheduling issues (due to work or care giving responsibilities), lack of convenience and flexibility, and/or stigma (fear of being seen attending a meeting). Online communication also allows people to disclose sensitive information about themselves in a relatively risk-free environment. Below are some of the strengths and limitations of online groups.
Strengths of Online Support Groups
- Increased access to support (provide support to those that are unable to attend traditional support groups or need additional support between group meetings)
- Adjunct to counseling (provide additional support between counseling sessions)
- Potential for growth, change and social experimentation
- Specialization for specific topics, ages or gender groups
- Privacy
Limitations of Online Support Groups
- Differing stages of group development (groups remain open to new members and members may log in and out at anytime; fluctuations in membership may make it difficult for groups to go through typical stages together or to maintain a working phase for long periods of time)
- Limited feedback (lack of face-to-face interaction limits people's ability to use vocal intonations, verbal and non-verbal cues to provide feedback to other members)
- Crisis management (handling an emotional crisis in cyberspace is challenging — limited feedback and lack of identifying information make assessment and referrals difficult)
- Anonymity breaches (despite steps to maintain anonymity, members can exchange identifying information and personal communication — members must consider the risks before joining and providing any information)
- Host competency (requirements for hosts vary among sites; hosts should state their professional qualifications or indicate none)
- Quality control (each online support group sets its own standards and procedures — users should try several to determine which suits their needs)
- Members with limited language skills (members with English as a second language, learning disabilities or other language limitations may find challenges or misunderstandings due to lack of other feedback)
- Hoax perpetuations (people with unscrupulous motives can deceive an online support group)
Online support groups can benefit people with barriers to accessing more traditional methods of support and can have the potential to improve the access and delivery of support to a wider range of people, including some who would not seek face-to-face support at all. They can reduce a person’s sense of isolation and increase feelings of validation. However, it is important to note that online support groups may not be appropriate for everyone.
Be sure to check out our Mesothelioma Discussion Board where you can receive information and support from our online community.
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