Cultural and Global Linkages of Emotional Support through Online Support Groups

Computer technology is altering the way people cope with emotional distress. Computers enable people worldwide and from all cultural groups to give and receive emotional support when it may be culturally stigmatizing to seek face-to-face support or when support services are limited or non-existent. Online support groups attract a broad range of participants. They vary in age, occupation, gender, and marital status. In this document the importance of cultural awareness, cultural sensitivity, and cultural stigmas related to seeking emotional support through online support groups is discussed. Pertinent cultural issues include influence of a Western value system; cultural issues for group leaders; cultural benefits; and cultural limitations, as well as an overview of online support groups. It is assumed that the reader possesses basic computer skills and understands computer terminology, but may be unfamiliar with the cultural issues of online support groups. (Contains 52 references and 3 tables.) (Author)