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E-Patients and Caregivers Coping with Cystic Fibrosis: The Relationship Between Relational Satisfaction and Attitudes Toward Groups, Loneliness, and Social Support Online

Barber, Jennifer S.

Abstract Details

2008, Master of Arts, University of Akron, Communication.
This study contributes to the growing focus on online support groups and computer mediated communication by examining a unique population of individuals inflicted with, or caring for someone inflicted with, the genetic disorder of Cystic Fibrosis. Although significant advances have been made in the treatment of this disease over the last 30 years, recent findings have found that face-to-face interactions between individuals with the disease should be avoided. With this understanding, the current study focuses on this population in an online social support group environment. The theoretical framework was drawn from Schutzs' (1966) Interpersonal Needs Theory, as applied to the group setting. The first goal of the study was to determine the relationship between Relational satisfaction, attitudes toward support groups, loneliness, and social support. The second goal of this study was to expand our knowledge by examining these relationships for the first time in an online setting. Results from the study showed a positive relationship between relational satisfaction, attitude toward groups and social support, while the data showed a relationship in a negative manner between relational satisfaction and loneliness. The study adds to the rapidly growing body of research focusing on online support groups and computer mediated communication.
Carolyn Anderson, PhD (Advisor)
46 p.

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Barber, J. S. (2008). E-Patients and Caregivers Coping with Cystic Fibrosis: The Relationship Between Relational Satisfaction and Attitudes Toward Groups, Loneliness, and Social Support Online [Master's thesis, University of Akron]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=akron1216231941

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Barber, Jennifer. E-Patients and Caregivers Coping with Cystic Fibrosis: The Relationship Between Relational Satisfaction and Attitudes Toward Groups, Loneliness, and Social Support Online. 2008. University of Akron, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=akron1216231941.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Barber, Jennifer. "E-Patients and Caregivers Coping with Cystic Fibrosis: The Relationship Between Relational Satisfaction and Attitudes Toward Groups, Loneliness, and Social Support Online." Master's thesis, University of Akron, 2008. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=akron1216231941

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)