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The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacts people's activities due to long-term quarantine and lockdowns (Xiong et al., 2020). Online mutual support groups not only offer opportunities for individuals with mental conditions to exchange knowledge and social support (Naslund et al., 2016) but also provide a virtual space for seeking informational support during crises (Li et al., 2022). While research has explored the emotional function of online support groups and their effects on mental health, there is a gap in understanding how gender influences interactions and identity formation within these groups. This paper explores gender dynamics, communication styles, and identity formation in online support groups during a pandemic, aiming to understand their role in challenging traditional gender norms and fostering inclusivity and empowerment.
Methods: Two focus groups and three in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a total of 13 adults aged 24 to 38 who utilized an online mutual support group from spring 2022 to spring 2023 during the pandemic. All participants were Chinese individuals residing in the United States and Canada. Of the participants, 9 were female, and 4 were male. Additionally, all participants held at least a graduate degree. Recruitment of participants was conducted through posted flyers and an email sent through the author’s network.
The interviews explored participants' pandemic experiences of using this mutual online support group, including their initiation of online support group use, perspectives on its effectiveness during crises, and their overall experiences with this online group. Conducted in Chinese to accommodate participants' native language, the interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically coded using Atlas.ti qualitative software, following grounded theory principles and an inductive approach to analysis.
Findings: Data analysis shows that female participants emphasized female solidarity and support within the group, with discussions often focusing on topics like empowerment, identity, and navigating gender roles. In contrast, male participants showed differing levels of support for gender equality and inclusivity, with some recognizing the importance of challenging traditional gender norms. Gender norms influenced communication styles, with females expressing themselves openly while males occasionally hesitated to engage in discussions deemed too "feminine" or emotionally charged.
Findings suggest that participants recognize the importance of acknowledging and addressing intersecting identities, such as race, ethnicity, sexuality, and socioeconomic status, in discussions about gender dynamics and social interactions within the group.
Several female participants report that when faced with instances of sexual harassment, they unite to protect and support the harassed individuals, showcasing their “girl power” and determination to combat any form of sexual harassment.
Conclusion and Implications:
Findings underscore the significance of gender dynamics within online mutual support groups, emphasizing themes of solidarity, empowerment, and protection among female participants when addressing issues like sexual harassment. This highlights the platform these groups provide for women to support each other, showcasing the power of female solidarity and collective action in confronting gender-related challenges. This underscores the potential of mutual online support groups to promote gender equality during a pandemic crisis.