Parents Managing Clubfoot: A Content Analysis of Internet Based Social Support Behaviors with a Focus on Uncertainty Management and Health Communication

Florin I Oprescu; S Campo; John B Lowe; J Andsager; J A Morcuende

doi:10.18848/2324-7576/CGP/v07i03/53485

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Parents Managing Clubfoot: A Content Analysis of Internet Based Social Support Behaviors with a Focus on Uncertainty Management and Health Communication

Journal article

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Parents Managing Clubfoot: A Content Analysis of Internet Based Social Support Behaviors with a Focus on Uncertainty Management and Health Communication

Florin I Oprescu, S Campo, John B Lowe, J Andsager and J A Morcuende

The International Journal of Interdisciplinary Social and Community Studies, Vol.7(3), pp.83-101

2013

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18848/2324-7576/CGP/v07i03/53485

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Abstract

clubfoot

uncertainty management theory

online social support

caregivers

birth defects

information technology

online support communities

health communication

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: Parents Managing Clubfoot: A Content Analysis of Internet Based Social Support Behaviors with a Focus on Uncertainty Management and Health Communication
Authors: Florin I Oprescu (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast
S Campo (Author) - University of Iowa, United States
John B Lowe (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering
J Andsager (Author) - University of Iowa, United States
J A Morcuende (Author) - University of Iowa, United States
Publication details: The International Journal of Interdisciplinary Social and Community Studies, Vol.7(3), pp.83-101
Publisher: Common Ground Publishing LLC
Date published: 2013
DOI: 10.18848/2324-7576/CGP/v07i03/53485
ISSN: 2324-7576
Organisation Unit: University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; School of Health and Sport Sciences - Legacy; Engage Research Lab; School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - Legacy; School of Health - Public Health
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99449093202621
Output Type: Journal article

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