Technology and Opportunity: People with Serious Mental Illness and Social Connection

摘要: AbstractObjective: Little information exists regarding how individuals with serious mental illness use technology and whether this usage facilitates social connections. This study contributes to filling knowledge gap by examining ways in which a sample of persons cell phones the Internet. Methods: Interviews 50 consumers living supported housing were asked about their computers perceptions Results: Cell allowed greater linkage social, medical, health, employment resources. Nearly all obtained through publicly funded programs. “Running out minutes” was common associated disrupted communication safety concerns. Few people owned computers, resulting restricted access. Conclusion: Policy makers should consider providing free or discounted hardware, subsidizing unlimited plans, promoting computer literacy.