Document Type
Thesis - University Access Only
Award Date
2007
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department / School
Journalism and Mass Communications
Abstract
This study examined the behavioral reactions of consumers who use medical diagnostic websites. Specifically, this study examined if consumers self-diagnose and self-medicate based on the information they find on medical diagnostic websites. These behavioral reactions were studied using uses and gratification theory. The study found participants do use the Internet and medical diagnostic websites to find health information, but they rarely diagnose and medicate based on that information. After conducting this study, the researcher recommended changes for further research that may provide an even more in depth understanding of consumer behavior.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Diagnosis
Medical care -- Computer network resources
Medical informatics
Internet in medicine
Consumer behavior
Format
application/pdf
Number of Pages
84
Publisher
South Dakota State University
Recommended Citation
Diedrich-Roling, Brandi A., "Consumer Diagnosis: A Study of Consumers' Behavioral Reactions to Information Obtained on Medical Diagnostic Websites" (2007). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 1378.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/etd2/1378