Online Social Support Exchange Among Pregnant Women With Language Barriers

• In Event: Online Social Support and Health

Abstract

Living away from people who share the same mother tongue, individuals with language barriers seek social support on the Internet. The current study examines online social support exchanged among Japanese women who are living overseas (non-Japanese countries). By using constant comparative analysis, we identified the uses of online social support that are particular to individuals with language barriers. Online social support assists these individuals to: (a) discuss common issues within uncommon environments, (b) reaffirm and reevaluate ethnic cultural values, and (c) re-conceptualize language barriers. Implications for creating health intervention are discussed.

Authors

• Sachiko Terui, University of Oklahoma

• Sun Kyong Lee, U of Oklahoma