Empowering processes within prostate cancer online support groups
by Katarzyna A. Campbell; Neil S. Coulson; Heather Buchanan
International Journal of Web Based Communities (IJWBC), Vol. 9, No. 1, 2013

Abstract: A growing body of literature suggests that participation in online support groups may empower patients. Indeed, a number of potentially empowering processes have been identified, however to date these processes have been described using data derived from either female or mixed gender support groups. Little is known about how participation in predominantly male online support groups (e.g., prostate cancer) may potentially empower members. A total of 682 messages from two prostate cancer online support groups were analysed using deductive thematic analysis, coding for the presence of potentially empowering processes, as described by van Uden-Kraan et al. (2008). The analysis confirmed the existence of all six potentially empowering processes, including: 'information provision', 'provision of emotional support', 'provision of esteem support', 'noting similarity of experiences', 'discussion of sensitive topics' and 'chit-chat'. The discussion between members illustrated the value they attached to knowledge, mastery and control over their lives with cancer, strongly favouring informed choice and active participation in disease management. In conclusion, the findings from this study extend our knowledge of the potentially empowering processes which members may encounter as a result of participation in online support groups and suggest that similar processes may be found in predominantly male support groups, such as prostate cancer.

Online publication date: Thu, 30-Jan-2014

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