Positive Psychology Interventions for Young Adults with Cancer on Social Media
Author Information
Author(s): Allison J Lazard, Rhyan N Vereen, Jieni Zhou, Hazel B Nichols, Marlyn Pulido, Catherine Swift, Nabarun Dasgupta, Barbara L Fredrickson
Primary Institution: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Hypothesis
Enhanced social context cues in social media messages will lead to greater intentions to engage in positive psychology interventions among young adults with cancer.
Conclusion
Positive psychology intervention messages adapted for social media were perceived as acceptable and feasible among young adults with cancer, encouraging social connectedness and acts of kindness.
Supporting Evidence
- More than 80% of participants intended to engage in the intervention activities.
- Participants reported high levels of perceived social presence and forecasted positivity resonance.
- Black participants reported lower intentions and positivity resonance compared to White participants.
Takeaway
Young adults with cancer can feel better by doing nice things for others or connecting with people, and they liked the idea of getting these messages on social media.
Methodology
Participants aged 18-39 with a cancer diagnosis were randomized to view social media messages promoting acts of kindness or social connectedness and reported their intentions and perceived reactions.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-selection of participants and the convenience sampling method.
Limitations
The sample may not be representative of all young adults with cancer, and the study relied on self-reported data.
Participant Demographics
Participants were mostly young adults aged 18-39, with a majority identifying as male and White.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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