How People Use Web-Based Parenting Information to Support Others in Their Social Circle: Qualitative Descriptive Study

How People Use Web-Based Parenting Information to Support Others in Their Social Circle: Qualitative Descriptive Study

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BackgroundAlmost two-thirds of the North American population have searched for health information on the web, and the majority report searching Vacuum Performance Kit on behalf of someone else in their social circle, a phenomenon referred to as proxy seeking.Little is known about how proxy seekers use web-based health information and the outcomes they experience.ObjectiveThe main aim of this study was to explore why proxy seekers used a parenting website on behalf of parents in their social circle and the outcomes they reported.MethodsA qualitative descriptive study was conducted in the context of a partnership with a web-based parenting resource to explore the contexts and motivations for proxy web-based health information seeking, use of information, and subsequent outcomes.

A total of 14 participants who self-identified as family members, friends of parents of young children, or professionals who worked with young children were interviewed, and a thematic analysis was conducted.ResultsThe following 4 reasons for proxy seeking were uncovered: for reassurance, out of personal curiosity, as part of a professional role, or following an explicit request from the parents.Information was used to provide informational support for parents or material support Wooden Jigsaws Puzzle for a child.Positive outcomes of using the information and some of the resulting interpersonal tensions were described.

ConclusionsThis study provides an in-depth look at proxy seeking behavior and outcomes among users of a web-based parenting resource.