How Patients With Schizophrenia Use the Internet
Author Information
Author(s): Gunther Eysenbach, Beate Schrank, Ingrid Sibitz, Annemarie Unger, Michaela Amering, Tim Szmukler, George Lloyd, Keith Koivunen
Primary Institution: Medical University of Vienna
Hypothesis
What are the subjective consequences of health-related Internet use among patients with schizophrenia?
Conclusion
The study provides insights into how individuals with schizophrenia handle illness-related Internet information, which could inform the development of Internet-based interventions.
Supporting Evidence
- The Internet is an influential source of illness-related information for patients with schizophrenia.
- Many patients reported difficulties with concentration and information overload when using the Internet.
- Patients expressed a desire for more communication with their doctors about online information.
Takeaway
Patients with schizophrenia use the Internet to find information about their illness, but it can sometimes make them feel overwhelmed or anxious.
Methodology
The study involved 26 individual semistructured interviews analyzed qualitatively until theoretical saturation was achieved.
Potential Biases
Participants may have had memory biases regarding their past Internet use.
Limitations
The sample may not represent all patients with schizophrenia, as it included a higher proportion of well-educated individuals.
Participant Demographics
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Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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