Examining Predictors of Self-Care Behaviors in Korean Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B

摘要

The current study tested a theory-based research model that hypothesizes the relationship between online communication activity, online network size, computer-mediated social support (CMSS), and self-care behaviors among 219 Korean patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Results indicated empirical support for the model, with significant relationships among online communication activity, online network size, CMSS, and self-care behaviors. CHB patients who more actively communicate with a larger number of others within an online community perceived greater CMSS from the community. Perceived CMSS was a significant predictor of patients' self-care behaviors. The implications of the findings and directions for future research are discussed.