Computer-Based Self-Help Groups

ABSTRACT The growth of the self-help movement and the rapid expansion of computer communications has led to a variety of computer-based self-help/mutual aid (CSHMA) groups, including computer-based 12-Step groups for problems with alcohol, narcotics., eating, gambling, compulsive sexuality, relationships, smoking, and others. This paper introduces professionals to this emerging resource and provides preliminary data about the extent of use and participation patterns of these CSHMA groups. In addition, the potential benefits and problems of CSHMA groups for people with addictions are discussed. Benefits include greater access to support, diffusion of dependency, meeting the needs of those with esoteric concerns, reduction of barriers related to social status cues, encouraging participation of reluctant members, promoting relational communication, and enhancing communication of those with interpersonal difficulties. Potential disadvantages, including destructive interactions, lack of clear and accountable leadership, promoting social isolation, limited access to noecomputer-using populations, and lack of research about benefits and user satisfaction are also discussed.