Journal Facts

Journal
International Journal of Self-Help and Self-Care
ISSN
1091-2851 (print) 1541-4450 (electronic)
Volume
5
Issue
1
Date
1/1/2006

Article Facts

Title
Trust and Participation in Online Usenet Self-Help Communities
DOI
10.2190/SH.5.1.f
Author
Sherida Ryan
Pages
43-72
Online Date
12/15/2009

Article Links

Trust and Participation in Online Usenet Self-Help Communities

Sherida Ryan

DOI: 10.2190/SH.5.1.f

Abstract

Vulnerability and self-disclosure make trust formation a key factor in the self-help process. However, the characteristics of online interaction challenge the development of trust. This article describes a study that explored trust and participation in two online self-help communities, one un-moderated and the other moderated. Members of the un-moderated community shared a chronic physical condition and the moderated community members had a chronic psychiatric disability. The research employed observation, analysis of online discussions, e-mail interviews, and comparisons of quantitative participation parameters. The primary difference between the two communities was the moderation process, which prevented any communication from disruptive individuals. The un-moderated community challenged disruptive or suspicious individuals, which often resulted in hostile discussions. The moderated community posted guidelines for participation and encouraged social communication, which facilitated the accumulation of history-based trust. The moderated community exhibited more participation during the observation period.

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