Engage and withdraw: The role of peer-led online communities in the configuration of knowledge on chronic illness

Authors

  • Amanda Karlsson Aarhus University
  • Carsten Stage Aarhus University
  • Loni Ledderer Aarhus University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7146/qhc.138193

Keywords:

chronic illness, configuration of knowledges, peer-led communities, social media, temporality

Abstract

Background: Living with chronic conditions and the dependencies for continual treatment make some citizens turn to peer-led online communities (PLOCs) to seek care and information about their illness. Aim: This article explores the role of PLOCs in the configuration of knowledge on chronic illness and unfolds how temporality of illness influences this process. Methods: A qualitative analysis using a thematic coding process was performed on transcripts from 20 semi-structured interviews conducted in 2022 with people living with various physical chronic conditions and using PLOCs. Within the theme of ‘knowledge’, three sub-themes were identified: peer, medical, and experiential knowledge. Results: The article finds that knowledge on chronic illness is configured by (1) information from peers in PLOCs, (2) medical expertise from doctors and (3) own experiential knowledge. Discussion: The article further discusses how this configuration of knowledge is influenced by temporality and thus is steered by the onset of a diagnosis. Conclusion: The PLOCs play a significant role at the onset of a diagnosis and make a ‘new chronic patient’ engage more, while an ‘experienced patient’ tends to withdraw from PLOCs. The article concludes by outlining the potentials of recognizing PLOCs as spaces where the joining together of various knowledge forms is made possible.

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Published

2024-01-30

How to Cite

Karlsson, A., Stage , C., & Ledderer, L. (2024). Engage and withdraw: The role of peer-led online communities in the configuration of knowledge on chronic illness. Qualitative Health Communication, 3(1), 4–16. https://doi.org/10.7146/qhc.138193

Issue

Vol. 3 No. 1 (2024)

Section

Articles

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