Abstract

The current study examined the experiences of individuals who participated in one or more online peer support group (OPSG) sessions organized by Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) in order to elucidate whether participants experience higher levels of quality of life as associated with their participation in OPSG. Participants ranged in age from 18 to 79 and were primarily White/Caucasian and female. Participants completed a survey, which consisted of a demographics questionnaire and the Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire- Short Form. Data were collected using Qualtrics and analyzed using SPSS. No statistical significance was found regarding differences in quality of life according to whether participants attended a DBSA group in the past two months. However, results indicated that participants who were married or in a committed relationship indicated a significantly higher quality of life score (F(4, 91) = 3.89, p = .006) than other groups. The results of the present study were inconsistent with the current literature, which suggests a link between quality of life and participation in peer support. Additional unmeasured variables may have contributed to a null finding. In conclusion, results indicate that online peer support groups, specifically DBSA Online Peer Support Groups, may be unrelated quality of life.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Self-help groups; Depressed persons -- Services for; Electronic discussion groups

Date of Award

2021

School Affiliation

Graduate School of Education and Psychology

Department/Program

Psychology

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctorate

Faculty Advisor

Natasha Thapar-Olmos

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Psychology Commons

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