Information Technology Attitudes and Behaviors Among Individuals with Psychiatric Disabilities Who Use the Internet: Results of a Web-Based Survey

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to use Web-based survey methodology to examine the use of information technology (IT) by people with psychiatric disabilities, as well as its association with self-determination in their lives. Survey respondents were recruited via notices posted on mental health listserves and Web sites as well as through newsletters and emails. A total of 911 respondents completed the survey. Respondents reported diverse uses of the Internet, in some cases exceeding usage reported by the general population. A positive association was identified between frequency of Internet use and self-assessed degree of self-determination. In multivariate analyses controlling for demographic variables (including income and education) and impairment indicators (including hospitalization history), those with higher self-determination were significantly less likely to hold negative attitudes about Internet use. Many respondents reported using IT to advocate for themselves, as well as to organize others in groups that can advocate for each other.