Journal Facts

Journal
International Journal of Self-Help and Self-Care
ISSN
1091-2851 (print) 1541-4450 (electronic)
Volume
1
Issue
1
Date
1/1/1999

Article Facts

Title
From Church Basements to World Wide Web Sites: The Growth of Self-Help Support Groups Online
DOI
10.2190/8BL4-VD3X-KV8N-T78F
Author
Edward J. Madara
Pages
37-48
Online Date
05/09/2002

Article Links

From Church Basements to World Wide Web Sites: The Growth of Self-Help Support Groups Online

Edward J. Madara

DOI: 10.2190/8BL4-VD3X-KV8N-T78F

Abstract

Online computer technology is dramatically increasing the number, utilization, accessibility, and capabilities of mutual aid self-help groups. It has done this, in part, by enabling many people to overcome barriers that previously kept them from organizing or participating in traditional face-to-face groups. The Internet and other online services provide individuals with new world-wide opportunities for developing and participating in different electronic mutual help communities. While they have their own special characteristics and capabilities, the online self-help groups provide many of the same benefits as the traditional face-to-face groups.

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