Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Summer 2016
Journal / Book Title
Journal of the Society for Social Work and Research
Abstract
Objective: Little information exists regarding how individuals with serious mental illness use technology and whether this usage facilitates social connections. This study contributes to filling this knowledge gap by examining ways in which a sample of persons with serious mental illness use cell phones and the Internet. Methods: Interviews with 50 consumers living in supported housing were asked about their use of cell phones and computers and their perceptions of social connections. Results: Cell phones and computers allowed greater linkage with social, medical, mental health, and employment resources. Nearly all obtained phones through publicly funded programs. “Running out of minutes” was common and associated with disrupted communication and safety concerns. Few people owned computers, resulting in restricted access. Conclusion: Policymakers should consider providing free or discounted hardware, subsidizing unlimited plans, and promoting computer literacy.
DOI
10.1086/686882
MSU Digital Commons Citation
Townsend, Lisa; Zippay, Allison; Caler, Kyle; and Forenza, Bradley, "Technology and Opportunity: People with Serious Mental Illness and Social Connection" (2016). Department of Social Work and Child Advocacy Faculty Scholarship and Creative Works. 149.
https://digitalcommons.montclair.edu/social-work-and-child-advocacy-facpubs/149
Rights
This article has been made accessible by the publisher under a bronze open access policy.
Published Citation
Townsend, L., Zippay, A., Caler, K., & Forenza, B. (2016). Technology and opportunity: people with serious mental illness and social connection. Journal of the society for social work and research, 7(2), 371-393.