Explorations of uncertainty management

摘要: The availability of online support communities creates new opportunities for caregivers children affected by health conditions to manage their illness-related uncertainty. This dissertation includes two studies that examined the presence uncertainty management behaviors in interactions among parents (caregivers) with clubfeet, and empirically tested applicability theory behaviors. Uncertainty Management Theory provided theoretical foundation both studies. For first study, a content analysis messages exchanged an community dedicated clubfeet was conducted. Most were authored women. majority emotions expressed positive. most frequent informationseeking direct questioning self-disclosure. Information exchanges as strategy included names care professionals medical information. Five major types social (informational, tangible, network, esteem, emotional) identified. Informational type provided, followed emotional esteem support. A third combinations or more second study survey distributed using snow-balling technique. Based on data structural equation modeling used test framework. Positive relationships identified between knowledge information seeking, seeking support, sense virtual community, stress. results suggested may need be adapted use contexts. seems important part experience caring clubfoot. Online these represent promising setting studying its potential causes. Such can critical source