Mothers' experiences of peer support via an Internet discussion forum after the death of a child.

The aim of this study was to describe mothers' experiences of peer support via an Internet discussion group for mothers who have a child died. A longitudinal qualitative study design was used. The research data were collected from four (n = 4) bereaved mothers from a private Internet support group titled 'angel baby' during the period 2001-2006. The data included 631 messages. Content analysis was used to examine the data. Peer support on an Internet discussion forum included giving and receiving emotional, cognitive and community support among bereaved mothers. The Internet discussion forum was a viable alternative to peer support after the death of a child. A strong sense of communality and lasting friendships was formed between the bereaved mothers who had similar experiences.