Online Health Information and female users; Needs, Usages and Effects
Download| Volume 2 Issue 2 2021 | |
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| Author(s): |
Shabana Asgher
Dr.Nosheena Saleem
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| Abstract | The use of internet for health information is on increase particularly among females. Although as a determinant of the effectiveness of health information, the role of “Information seeking” is recognized as much important as the “content” of the source. Little research, however, has investigated online health information (OHI) seeking behavior among female users. Present study attempts to contribute in bridging this gap. Due to the exploratory nature of the study, focus group was found most appropriate tool .Eight focus groups were conducted from October 2019 to March 2020, bracketing a total of 70 females, who reported to use online sources for their personal health or the health-related issues faced by their dear ones. The participants were asked to converse about the needs for which they seek online health information, the techniques they use to search and select a source , the extent to which they found the acquired information as useful and the effects(if any),they had experienced. Discussions were converted into transcripts and thematic analysis was performed. Significant information patterns were identified and categorized. The findings identified Internet as to be the initial and most frequently used source of information, and guidance regarding health related issues among female users. In most of the cases, the use was need- oriented and participants reported to practice similar searching patterns i.e. use of key words and giving preference to preliminary results. Website was reported to be the most frequently visited and most trusted source of OHI followed by YouTube ,particularly among middle age users whereas young age users consult diverse sources including websites, you tube, instagram and blogs. However, in making health related decisions, the role of online health sources was found that of a supplementary source. The information collected was used either to get an idea or to self-diagnose a health issue based on symptoms. Many reported to use online sources in order to seek reassurance after consulting medical professionals. Socio-demographics and personality traits were found significant determinants of the decisions related to content selection and source credibility. Both positive and negative effects of this convenient and easily accessible source of health information were reported. Young participants were found to have Cyberchondria due to extensive use of OHI. OHI is mainly used by females to gratify informational needs and to get immediate relief from anxiety. Their health related decisions, however, are still physician and medical professionals dependent. |
| Keywords | Online Health information (OHI). Socio demographics, information seeking female user, Cyberchondria |
| Year | 2021 |
| Volume | 2 |
| Issue | 2 |
| Type | Research paper, manuscript, article |
| Journal Name | Journal of Media & Communication (JMC) | Publisher Name | ILMA University | Jel Classification | - | DOI | -- | ISSN no (P, PRINT) | 2707-8906 | ISSN no (E, Electronic) | 2788-8304 | Country | Pakistan | City | Karachi | Institution Type | University | Discipline | Media, Advertising, Social Science, Multidisciplinary | Journal Type | Open Access | Manuscript Processing | Blind Peer Reviewed | Format | Paper Link | http://jmc.ilmauniversity.edu.pk/arc/Vol2/2.2/4.pdf | Page | -- |