Social Media and Social Support: A Uses and Gratification Examination of Health 2.0

• In Event: Stress and Coping: Mental Health and Adjustment

Abstract

This study utilized a uses and gratifications framework to examine the use of social media for support purposes by caregivers of children with Down syndrome. An online survey and a content analysis of popular social media sites were used to examine caregivers’ use of social media, their motivation, and their perceived support outcomes. Findings suggest that caregivers’ strongest motivations for using social media is to connect with people in similar situations and to find emotional support. Caregivers indicated a sense of belonging and informational support as the strongest perceived outcomes. This study sheds light on how caregivers use social media for support purposes and provides practical suggestions for improving the capacity of other online communities focused on providing social support.

Author

• Lydia Sunnie Kim, 32 Consulting