Exchanging ideas and best practices with members is one of IAVM’s hallmarks, and nowhere is that more prevalent than on VenueNet. Not only is it a great place to pose questions and receive answers, it can also contribute to your overall well-being.
According to a new study in the journal Computers in Human Behavior, online forums offer benefits for individuals and society as a whole.
The study found that approximately 10 percent of online users in the U.K. participate in an online forum, whereas 20 percent in the U.S. do.
“Our findings paint a more optimistic picture of old-style online discussion forums,” said lead author Dr. Louise Pendry from the University of Exeter in the U.K. “Often we browse forums just hoping to find answers to our questions. In fact, as well as finding answers, our study showed users often discover that forums are a source of great support, especially those seeking information about more stigmatizing conditions. Moreover, we found that users…who engaged more with other forum users showed a greater willingness to get involved in offline activities related to the forum, such as volunteering, donating or campaigning.”
Forum users who get more involved develop strong links with other users, said Dr. Jessica Salvatore of Sweet Briar College in Virginia.
“They come to see themselves as more identified with other forum users,” Salvatore said. “And then these more identified users see the greatest benefits, in terms of positive links with mental health and getting involved offline. In a nutshell, the more users put into the forum, the more they get back, and the pay-off for both users themselves and society at large can be significant.”
If you haven’t participated on VenueNet, please do so. Not only is it good for the industry, it’s good for your health.
(Image: SumAll/Creative Commons)
