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What Is the Quality of Web-Based Advice for the General Public on Benzodiazepine Misuse and Use Disorder A Systematic Evaluation of Websites1.88 MB
Published VersionCC BY-NC-ND V4.0, Open Access
Journal article
What Is the Quality of Web-Based Advice for the General Public on Benzodiazepine Misuse and Use Disorder? A Systematic Evaluation of Websites
Journal of Consumer Health on the Internet, Vol.27(1), pp.35-52
2023
Abstract
Introduction
Benzodiazepines have therapeutic indications, but their overuse may lead to misuse and dependence. Benzodiazepine dependence can be managed by health professionals, but stigma may result in individuals avoiding face-to-face help and turning to online resources. The internet is a popular, but unregulated resource and website quality are variable.
Aim(s)
(I) To systematically evaluate the quality of websites on benzodiazepine misuse and dependence using selected validated tools/variables. (II) To identify common themes presented on these websites.
Methods
Six search terms, “benzodiazepine treatment,” “benzo treatment,” “benzodiazepine addiction,” “benzo addiction,” “benzodiazepine help” and “benzo help,” were entered into two search engines. English-language websites were included if they presented information about benzodiazepine misuse and use disorder. Eligible websites were evaluated for quality of written information, readability, website usability, and other areas of interest such as advertising. Content was assessed by comparing themes covered in websites.
Results
Fifty-six websites were evaluated. Websites were generally good at providing balanced and unbiased information; however, treatment options were covered poorly. Most websites should be understood by individuals aged 15 years and older.
Discussion
The quality of websites varied, but common areas that require improvement include information on treatment options, effects on quality of life, and sources of information.
Conclusion
In general, the quality of websites presenting benzodiazepine information was mediocre based on our assessment. Future research could explore benzodiazepine users’ experiences of these websites as such studies may improve website quality.
Details
- Title
- What Is the Quality of Web-Based Advice for the General Public on Benzodiazepine Misuse and Use Disorder? A Systematic Evaluation of Websites
- Authors
- Rhys Ponton (Corresponding Author) - University of AucklandGarion Gear - University of AucklandParsa Hadiyounzadeh - University of AucklandFyrooz Iqram - University of AucklandAnes Kim - University of AucklandSophanna Out - University of AucklandWey Ern Thoo - University of AucklandJane L. Sheridan - University of AucklandDavid Newcombe - University of Auckland
- Publication details
- Journal of Consumer Health on the Internet, Vol.27(1), pp.35-52
- Publisher
- Routledge
- Date published
- 2023
- DOI
- 10.1080/15398285.2023.2166269
- ISSN
- 1539-8293; 1539-8285
- Copyright note
- © 2023 The Author(s). Published with license by Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/), which permits non-commercial re-use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited, and is not altered, transformed, or built upon in any way.
- Organisation Unit
- School of Health - Psychology
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 991195438202621
- Output Type
- Journal article
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