Michael Kirshner1. 1. Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research, Portland, OR, USA.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the qualitative and quantitative differences between moderated and unmoderated on-line social support groups focused on asthma. DESIGN: A retrospective study of a single months duration of Internet postings to four public on-line support groups focused on asthma. MEASUREMENT: Content analysis of random set of messages. RESULTS: Preliminary data indicate a quantitative and qualitative difference between moderated and unmoderated groups. Patterns of differences point to variations in the content of messages and the types of social support sought and provided.
OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the qualitative and quantitative differences between moderated and unmoderated on-line social support groups focused on asthma. DESIGN: A retrospective study of a single months duration of Internet postings to four public on-line support groups focused on asthma. MEASUREMENT: Content analysis of random set of messages. RESULTS: Preliminary data indicate a quantitative and qualitative difference between moderated and unmoderated groups. Patterns of differences point to variations in the content of messages and the types of social support sought and provided.