Defining Digital Peer Support: A Framework to Preserve Core Values in the Rush to Digitize

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Technology
• Digital Health Interventions
• Peer Support Services

Background:

• Digital peer support is growing alongside technology integration in mental health services.
• The definition of digital peer support is unclear, leading to potential misuse by commercial entities and research ambiguity.
• This ambiguity poses risks to technology developers and the peer support profession.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define authentic digital peer support.
• To develop a framework clarifying digital peer support to guide stakeholders.
• To ensure digital tools uphold peer support's activist roots and relational foundations.

Main Methods:

• Leveraging established peer support principles.
• Incorporating lived expertise.
• Developing a five-domain framework.

Main Results:

• A five-domain framework for authentic digital peer support was created.
• The framework clarifies the essential components of genuine digital peer support.
• Guidance is provided for ensuring digital tools align with peer support values.

Conclusions:

• A clear definition and framework are crucial for authentic digital peer support.
• The developed framework aids technology developers, researchers, and practitioners.
• Maintaining fidelity to peer support principles is vital for effective digital interventions.