Community

Having someone there for users is obviously an essential part of online support groups. Community was an overarching concept I explored throughout the semester. On all of the websites, users responded to the concerns of others. What was surprising about responses is that all posts received at least one comment. This creates a feeling on the forums that there is always someone willing to respond and help users out. Moderators are also available on the site 24/7 to ensure people who need immediate help get it right away.

Online support groups are unique in helping those who use them because they rely on peer-to-peer communication. In some situations, peer-to-peer chatting could be more influential than therapy. Speaking to someone who has gone through the same problem as yourself is more personal than talking to a trained professional who may not have ever felt the same way as you do. In fact, 59 percent of supportgroups.com users said in response to a website poll they do not see a therapist. Some of the issues, however, on supportgroups.com are physical problems instead of emotional issues and cannot be helped by therapy. Peer-to-peer networks are powerful because they allow users to respond in real time and do things like be updated on a friend's life via e-mail.

Sometimes online communities are the only thing people have in their lives. I've encountered numerous instances where people say they do not have people to rely on or talk to in their lives. Online communities have taken the place of face-to-face communication for these users. There are resources on the websites to direct people to resources and crisis lines. Resources are present for people just as they might be if a person in their life refers them to the same resources. Regardless of if people are connecting with others online and offline, online support groups are a strong community where users can turn for help. Communities are empathetic, responsive, respectful, and encourage friendship. Without a community that strives to incorporate these values, the communities would not be as strong. Users are able to place their trust in the community to share their feelings and be assured they will receive a response.