“You Have to be Positive.” Social Support Processes of an Online Support Group for Men Living with HIV
- 21 October 2009
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Taylor & Francis in Communication Studies
- Vol. 60 (5) , 526-541
Abstract
Over the past decade, improved treatments have helped people with AIDS enjoy a state of restored health and greater hope for long-term survival. Because of these changes, social support is an even more important resource for those battling HIV/AIDS. One source for social support is a support group, which offers social and emotional resources to meet the needs of its members. The online support group investigated in this study serves gay men with HIV/AIDS and requires that they talk only about positive aspects of life. To understand the implications this rule has for support processes, a thematic analysis was conducted to determine how this group constructs social support. Rules and resources aimed at the group goal of positivity help develop a unique speech community. Implications for social support, support groups, and the Internet are discussed.Keywords
This publication has 26 references indexed in Scilit:
- Fostering empowerment in online support groupsComputers in Human Behavior, 2008
- An investigation of gay men's experiences with HIV counselling and peer support servicesCanadian Journal of Community Mental Health, 2007
- Communicating Social Support2004
- Social Support and the Management of Uncertainty for People Living With HIV or AIDSHealth Communication, 2004
- Communication in the management of uncertainty: The case of persons living with HIV or AIDSCommunication Monographs, 2000
- Who talks? The social psychology of illness support groups.American Psychologist, 2000
- Communication of Social Support in Computer-Mediated Groups for People With DisabilitiesHealth Communication, 1999
- 'In an important way, I did die': Uncertainty and revival in persons living with HIV or AIDSAIDS Care, 1999
- Negative Experiences in Support GroupsSocial Work in Health Care, 1994
- Strengths in Transition: Professionally Facilitated HIV Support Groups and the Development of Client SymptomatologySocial Work With Groups, 1993