Core Issues, Contributions and Concluding Remarks

This chapter summarizes the main findings of the discourse studies on communication in online self-help groups for anxiety and depression (OSGADs). It argues that self-disclosure plays a significant role in phatic interactions and social support exchanges. The complementary relationship between self-disclosure and advice giving has been highlighted. The research implications of the studies are also discussed, including implications for online communication of social support, the significance of language and care cultures, and interpersonal communication. The chapter closes by suggesting directions for future research.