More Research!

This entry focuses on some an article that I found related to social support in computer-mediated groups for people with disabilities.

Finn, J. (2000). Communication of Social Support in Computer-Mediated Groups for People With Disabilities . HEALTH COMMUNICATION , 11 (2), 123-151.

This article discusses what an individual with a sudden disability goes through as they adjust to their new lifestyle based on their disability. 

"When an individual experiences a serious illness, disabling condition, or both, the effects can influence numerous areas of the person's life: mobility, self-care, employment, communication, and social relationships"  

It talks about how individuals may need different kinds of social support to deal with the areas listed above. It discusses the benefits of social support and how face to face contact can be difficult due to mobility issues, access, or communication. The article then brings up the idea of online support groups filling the void that face to face support lacks due to access. 

Finn discusses House's (1981) four classes of supportive behaviors such as: EMOTIONAL SUPPORT (Concenr), APPRAISAL SUPPORT( affirmation or feedback) INFORMATIONAL SUPPORT (advice or suggestions) and INSTRUMENTAL SUPPORT (physical assistance) 

Finn also provides information about Barbee and Cunningham's (1995) Interactive Coping Behavior Coding System which is comprised of five supra types: a) solve behaviors (problem-focused approach) b) solace-behaviors (a motion-focused approach) C) dismiss behaviors (problem focused-avoidance) d) dismiss behaviors (problem focused-avoidance) and e) escape behaviors (emotion focused avoidance) e) escape behaviors (emotion-focused avoidance) 

It also talks about self-help groups and their purpose. They provide support for individuals to deal with exerting control over circumstances that affect their lives. They are based on principles of empowerment, inclusion, nonhierarchical decision making, shared responsibility, and a holistic approach to people's cultural economic and social needs. 

The article also addresses several positive outcomes of individuals involved in self-help groups. They include: 

• sharing information such as ideas, facts and resources
• engaging in dialogue to reveal multiple perspectives
• discussing taboo subjects 
• being "all in the same boat" with others 
• experiencing mutual support
• engaging in problem solving and rehearsing 
• overcoming alienation and isolation 
• engaging in catharsis 
• taking on the role of helper 
• developing inspiration and hope 
• developing social networks 
• assisting more people less expensively

This article continues to discuss self-help groups in a computer based concept for individuals with disabilities. They share several of the same benefits that face to face groups provide but they take place without the constraints of time and distance by utilizing the internet. 


I hope to continue this research and find more information about available support groups provided to individuals in an online community. I want to find something more up to date and find specific examples of support services available to individuals with disabilities today.