Abstract
IntroductionYoung people with eating disorders are at risk of harm to their social, emotional and physical development and life chances. Although they can be reluctant to seek help, they may access social media for information, advice or support. The relationship between social media and youth well‐being is an emotive subject, but not clearly understood. This qualitative study aimed to explore how young people used a youth‐orientated, moderated, online, eating disorders discussion forum, run by an eating disorders charity.MethodsWe applied a netnographic approach involving downloading and thematically analysing over 400 messages posted August–November 2012.ResultsData analysis generated five themes: Taking on the role of mentor; the online discussion forum as a safe space; Friendship within the online forum; Flexible help; and Peer support for recovery and relapse prevention. Forum moderation may have influenced the forum culture.DiscussionOur findings are consistent with literature about youth preferences for mental health self‐care support. A young person's decision to use this discussion forum can be construed as pro‐active self‐care. A moderated online discussion forum can make a positive contribution to support for youth with eating disorders, countering negative media perceptions of online groups.ConclusionThis study adds to knowledge about how young people access support via social media. Online discussion forums can be safe and acceptable spaces for youth to access help. Further research could provide insights into the impact of forum moderation.
Highlights
Young people with eating disorders are at risk of harm to their social, emotional and physical development and life chances
A moderated online discussion forum can make a positive contribution to support for youth with eating disorders, countering negative media perceptions of online groups
This study adds to knowledge about how young people access support via social media
Summary
Young people with eating disorders are at risk of harm to their social, emotional and physical development and life chances. They can be reluctant to seek help, they may access social media for information, advice or support. The relationship between social media and youth well-being is an emotive subject, but not clearly understood. This qualitative study aimed to explore how young people used a youth-orientated, moderated, online, eating disorders discussion forum, run by an eating disorders charity. This paper is concerned with online support for young people (10–19 years1) with eating disorders.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
