A study published this week by University College, London, found positive client-health outcomes for health information websites which contained internet community forums--benefits which were not apparrant for sites which contained information alone.
Here's part of the BBC's coverage of the study:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/4352626.stm
"They looked at these people's use of interactive computer websites and programmes, which contained information services plus online support groups, chatrooms, or tailored advice based on a person's details, affected people with such chronic diseases.
"Interactive sites were of greater benefit to people than those with information alone, or not using sites at all.
"The researchers found such sites have largely positive effects on users, making them feel better informed and more socially supported.
"Overall, people who used such sites appeared to see improvements in the way they looked after their health and in their clinical condition."
This supports my view that online communities can be as real (in psychological terms) as any in real life.
I think this observation can be valid for more than just health information sites--many specialized I&Rs might help their clients by hosting an online forum where the members could support each other.
A summary of the study can be found here: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/pcps/research/ehealth/documents/infopac_study_execsummary.pdf
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