COMPARISONS: PROFESSIONALLY-DIRECTED AND SELF-DIRECTED INTERNET GROUPS FOR WOMEN WITH BREAST CANCER
MORTON A. LIEBERMAN
MITCH GOLANT
ANDREW WINZELBERG
FIONA MCTAVISH
DAVID H. GUSTAFSON
DOI: 10.2190/GE85-J31W-XJV7-LB9L
Abstract
Psychological interventions for women coping with breast cancer (BC) have embraced the idea that the open expression of negative emotions is beneficial. This study asks if there is a difference in the amount of negative emotions expressed by members of professional-led compared to self-directed on-line support groups. To answer this question we examined the support group messages written by participants of 11 Internet delivered BC support groups. Seven were facilitated by professionals and four were self-directed. We used two text analysis software programs, LWIC and PCAD, to categorize the interaction. Groups conducted by professionals expressed significantly more negative emotions, anxiety, hostility, and depression and fewer positive emotions than self-directed groups. These differences suggest what leaders encourage, reinforce, model, and may influence members' behaviors. Professionals encourage the further expression of such emotions, whereas lay leaders more often respond with support and reassurance to members who express painful emotions.
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