A model for enhancing performance in using social network sites for breast cancer patients

Abstract

Social network communities that promote information about cancer are able to develop an interactive environment where there are virtual relationships among cancer patients. The current research into the assessment of cancer patients’ performance in using Social Network Sites (SNS) continues to be limited, despite the potential of SNS as a platform for providing cancer information. Most of the studies are descriptive and there is still lack of using theories for studying the impact of SNS on cancer patients. To investigate the factors that influence the performance of cancer patients in using SNS, this study proposes a research model by integrating Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) and Task-Technology Fit (TTF) theory. This research applied a quantitative approach using survey method. Based on purposive sampling, questionnaires were distributed to 178 Breast Cancer (BC) patients in two hospitals and four cancer support groups in Peninsular Malaysia. Data were analysed using Smart PLS 2.0 M3 and SPSS Version 16. Results indicated that Self-Efficacy, Social Support, Negative Affect and Positive Affect, Outcome Expectation, Task Characteristics and Technology Characteristics are significant factors that influence on the performance of cancer patients in using SNS. Meanwhile, Social Support and Self-Efficacy have significant negative relationships with Negative Affect and significant positive relationships with Positive Affect. In addition, this study found significant differences between the different age, race/ethnic, education, and employment status with respect to performance in using SNS. Finally, this study provides recommendations to online cancer support groups to assist them in providing better support through SNS. Mainly, online support groups should support cancer patients by providing them Social Support and assist in increasing their Self-Efficacy in using SNS.