ABSTRACT
378People who are struggling with sorrow or stress often turn to friends and family for support. New technologies have made it easier for people to join online communities for the support that they seek. At https://fertilityforums.com" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">fertilityforums.com, couples who are struggling with infertility come together to express their anguish and provide support for others. One woman posted to the message board to say that she was upset because her husband's brother shared the news that he and his wife were expecting a baby girl. She said, “It just hurts so bad because we lost our twins and we don't get to experience that happiness right now … I just have been a mess and figured I always feel better after coming here and getting the great support.” The responses to this post were indeed supportive: “vent away,” “I know what it's like to be in your shoes,” “we've all been there,” “keep your chin up,” and “your day will come.” Channels for interpersonal communication like this message board help people meet an ancient and universal need for comfort and support.
