NotesFAQContact Us
Collection
Advanced
Search Tips
Back to results
Peer reviewed Peer reviewed
Direct linkDirect link
ERIC Number: EJ718274
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2004-Jan
Pages: 9
Abstractor: Author
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0197-6664
EISSN: N/A
Caregivers of Older Adults: Advantages and Disadvantages of Internet-Based Social Support
Colvin, Jan; Chenoweth, Lillian; Bold, Mary; Harding, Cheryl
Family Relations, v53 n1 p49-57 Jan 2004
We explored the perceptions of caregivers of older adults using Internet-based social support networks regarding the unique advantages and disadvantages of online social support. Participants were recruited with permission of Web owners through 15 Web sites that offered social networks, and responses from 63 electronically submitted surveys were analyzed qualitatively. Two major advantages of online social support were attributes of computer-mediated communication (CMC) (anonymity, asynchrony, and ability to personalize use) and connectivity (connecting with other caregivers). Disadvantages included limitations of CMC and complaints with CMC. Findings suggest that Internet use may be a potential resource for caregivers in expanding their status-similar social support networks.
Journal Customer Services, Blackwell Publishing, 350 Main Street, Malden, MA 02148. Tel: 800-835-6770 (Toll Free); Fax: 781-388-8232; e-mail: subscrip@bos.blackwellpublishing.com.
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A