Accessing dental anxiety online support groups: an exploratory qualitative study of motives and experiences.
OBJECTIVE
In recent years, Internet access has grown markedly providing individuals with new opportunities for online information retrieval, psychological advice and support. The objectives of the present study were to explore the context through which dentally anxious individuals access an online support group and the nature of their online experiences.


METHODS
An online questionnaire was completed by 143 individuals who accessed the Dental Fear Central online support group bulletin board. Qualitative analysis was conducted on the responses.


RESULTS
Analysis revealed three emergent themes which reflected the motives and experiences of individuals: 'Searching for help', 'Sharing fears' and 'I feel empowered'.


CONCLUSIONS
This exploratory study suggests that for most individuals accessing this online support group was a positive and beneficial experience.


CONCLUSIONS
Online support groups may represent a convenient and beneficial tool that may assist certain individuals to confront their debilitating anxiety/phobia and successfully receive dental care.
Buchanan
Heather
H
Institute of Work, Health and Organisations, University of Nottingham, 8 William Lee Buildings, University Boulevard, Nottingham NG7 2RQ, UK. heather.buchanan@nottingham.ac.uk
Coulson
Neil S
NS
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001292:Attitude to Computers; D001294:Attitude to Health; D001315:Australia; D002170:Canada; D003142:Communication; D016854:Dental Anxiety / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D005060:Europe; D005239:Fear; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet / Q000458:organization & administration*; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011209:Power, Psychological; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012657:Self-Help Groups / Q000458:organization & administration*; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States