出版社:University of Sheffield, Department of Information Studies
摘要:Health information-seeking and sharing online has become immensely intertwined with day-to-day information-seeking of US immigrants with health concerns. Despite the consist recognition of unique health needs among different US immigrant communities, little is known about the distinctive patterns and extent of health information behaviour of Korean Americans, who are one of the most rapidly growing Asian immigrant populations in the USA. The study leverages online discussion forums whose participants are Korean Americans living in the USA. A mixed methodology of both content and semantic network analyses was used for data analysis. It was revealed that Korean American forum participants discuss two dominant topics: breast cancer tests and treatment. Although breast cancer tests was the central topic, the emphasis was on diagnosis rather than prevention. Additionally, the data indicates that participants derive psychological or emotional support from breast cancer information-seeking and sharing. Moreover, concerns stemming from insurance and financial difficulties are the biggest causes of distress for those affected by breast cancer. The findings from this study demonstrate the complexity of health information-seeking and the subsequent vast spectrum of concerns. Online health information behaviour specifically involving breast cancer is often connected not only with medical practices but also with social, financial and psychological challenges as well.
关键词:health information behaviour; semantic network analysis; social media; online community