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Computer-mediated social support: single young mothers as a model system
P J Dunham1, A Hurshman, E Litwin
1Department of Psychology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. dunham@is.dal.ca
American Journal of Community Psychology
|August 7, 1998
Summary
Computer-mediated social support networks offer significant benefits for single mothers. Regular participation in these online communities reduced parenting stress and fostered a sense of belonging.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Psychology
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Single mothers face unique challenges and social isolation.
- Access to consistent social support is crucial for maternal well-being.
- Traditional support networks may not always be accessible or sufficient.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of a computer-mediated social support (CMSS) network on single mothers.
- To assess the nature of social support exchanged within the CMSS network.
- To evaluate changes in parenting stress levels among participants.
Main Methods:
- 42 single mothers with young infants participated in a 6-month CMSS network intervention.
- The network offered public messages, private email, and teleconferencing.
- Participation levels and message content were analyzed; parenting stress was measured pre- and post-intervention.
Main Results:
- High network engagement (over 16,670 accesses) was observed.
- 98% of public forum replies provided positive social support (emotional, informational, tangible).
- Regular participants reported decreased parenting stress and developed a sense of community.
Conclusions:
- CMSS networks can effectively provide valuable social support for single mothers.
- These online communities facilitate the development of relationships and a sense of belonging.
- Participation in CMSS is associated with reduced parenting stress.