| Over the past decade, the role of the Internet in our lives has increased exponentially. However, very little is yet known about ways in which we might connect to support one another in an emotionally healthy forum. The current pilot study investigates whether or not average individuals can use basic active listening techniques, along with self-directed activities, to provide emotional support to one another. A sample of twenty-two (N=22) new members to 7 Cups of Tea were drawn from an anonymous archival dataset. Each participant was administered the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale -- 21 (DASS-21) twice over a span of one month. Correlational and multiple regression analyses were conducted to draw connections between changes in DASS-21 scores and member engagement in private messaging, group messaging, and growth path progression. Results indicate a likely predictive relationship between decreased anxiety scores and an increased engagement in private messaging. In addition, a predictive relationship was found between increased engagement in group messaging and increased stress scores. Finally, a significant relationship emerged between engagement in private messaging and a decrease in overall distress scores. While the limitations of the current study are recognized and discussed, the findings provide initial support for the potential benefits of this mode of emotional support. |
