Bringing theory to research on computer-mediated comforting communication

被引：104

作者：

Caplan, Scott E. ^{[1
]}

Turner, Jacob S. ^{[1
]}

机构：

[1] Univ Delaware, Dept Commun, Newark, DE 19716 USA

来源：

COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR | 2007年 / 23卷 / 02期

关键词：

social support; Internet; computer-mediated communication; emotional support; appraisal theory; comforting;

D O I：

10.1016/j.chb.2005.08.003

中图分类号：

B84 [心理学];

学科分类号：

04 ; 0402 ;

摘要：

The current paper sought to advance the literature on computer-mediated emotional support by outlining a candidate theory of online comforting communication. We present a model that explicates the discursive, cognitive, and affective processes that function to reduce emotional distress and help improve one's psychosocial well-being. We identify unique attributes of online social interaction, as compared to face-to-face (FtF) interaction, that may be especially useful for facilitating empathic and adaptive comforting communication. Additionally, we explain how unique features of computer-mediated comforting communication may work to facilitate the cognitive and affective processes that result in alleviation of emotional distress. Final sections of the paper advance research questions and hypotheses to guide future empirical research examining the efficacy of online emotional support. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

引用

页码：985 / 998

页数：14

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[1] Evaluation of computerized text analysis in an Internet breast cancer support group [J].