Citation

Jones A, Meier A. Soc. Work With Groups 2011; 34(2): 101-120.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/01609513.2010.543049

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Worldwide, people can now come together in online support communities (e-communities) to share common concerns. Although myriad e-communities now exist, few researchers have investigated their leadership, infrastructure, and developmental processes. Because these e-communities are often founded without professional oversight by people confronted with life crises, social workers have expressed concern about their safety and effectiveness for vulnerable populations. This article presents findings from a case study of an e-community, www.parentsofsuicide, for parents who have lost a child to suicide, and the leadership and organizational development factors contributing to its organizational durability and effectiveness as a source of social support. © Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

Language: en

Keywords

Case study; Suicide survivor; Grassroots leadership; Online support community; Virtual organizational development