In sickness and in health : a study of health information behaviour and use among Flemish middle-aged and older adults
Year: 2021
Type: dissertation
Abstract: This doctoral dissertation studies health information behaviour and use by middle-aged (50-64 years old) and older adults (65-80 years old) in Flanders, the northern, Dutch-speaking region of Belgium. Through qualitative analyses of 40 in-depth, semi-structured interviews, this thesis examines why (not), how, where, and when middle-aged and older Flemish adults obtain, circulate, and use health information and to what outcomes and effects. Two dominant lines of research are chiefly explored, namely 1) the role of online health information (OHI), and 2) health information sharing behaviour in everyday social interactions. Additionally, in support of these research lines, quantitative data are presented which provide insights into the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) and digital media by a larger sample of Flemish middle-aged and older adults. Also under scrutiny, as part of a critical reflection on the interview fieldwork, are the self-presentation efforts by interviewees, that is to say, how they perceive and present themselves as rational and sensible Internet users and OHI seekers by engaging in impression management (IM). All in all, this dissertation illustrates that health information is an important aspect of contemporary life and the media landscape. In a rapidly ageing information and search society in which health in the broadest meaning of the word is highly valued and at the forefront of public and individual consciousness, and in which health and media are intimately linked, health information plays an important role in educating and possibly empowering citizens in matters of health and illness. Yet, while interviewees look up and make use of health information in sickness and in health, it seems that the role of that information remains limited. Respondents hold the doctor in high regard, describing the physician as the first and foremost medical authority, expert, and most trustworthy source of health information. Chapter 6 suggests that such expressions are in part an element of the self-presentation efforts of respondents to portray themselves as responsible Internet users and sensible OHI seekers, who do not take OHI too far and certainly do not diagnose or treat themselves. By way of a theory-driven thematic analysis, the self-presentation efforts of interviewees are scrutinised in Chapter 6 through a theoretical lens which consists of impression management (IM) theory enhanced with the third-person effect (TPE). The study finds that respondents engage in various IM behaviours to maximise positive impressions (proactively demonstrate knowledge, accomplishments, and positive outcomes; compare and distance oneself from others) and minimise negative impressions (respond to critical questions; communicate limitations and offer external explanations). Thus, it is concluded that respondents overall tend to present themselves as rational and sensible Internet users in the context of obtaining and using OHI. Taken together, the findings in this dissertation might be of interest and help to media and communication scholars – particularly health communication researchers and practitioners – as well as information professionals, healthcare practitioners, and policy makers. The findings herein also bare relevance to the global COVID-19 pandemic and ‘infodemic’ which continues as this thesis was completed. The COVID-19 crisis has amply illustrated not only the importance of clear communication between governments, scientists, health professionals, the media, and the public to effectively respond to a pandemic, but also the need to timely disseminate credible and accurate health information and advice to the public. By studying when, where, and how Flemish middle-aged and older adults search for, obtain, circulate, and use health information, this thesis might be of help and contribute to efforts to inform the public on matters of health and illness, in times of crisis or otherwise.
Author: Martijn Huisman
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W3126559660