The benefits of supporting others online - How online communication shapes the provision of support and its relationship with wellbeing

Combining knowledge from research on prosocial behavior, online communication, and (online) social support, this paper examines (1) how online communication shapes the provision of online support and (2) how the provision of online support is related to wellbeing. The focus lies on the underrepresented perspective of those acting prosocially by providing support. To answer these research questions, a qualitative (n = 22) and quantitative study (n = 470) have been conducted. The results of both studies suggest that providing online social support is positively related to people's wellbeing by satisfying basic psychological needs. This relation was partially mediated by beneficence and moderated by autonomous motivation and positive feedback. The qualitative results underline the specific conditions of online communication for providing support. It connects people with shared concerns and enables the autonomous building of anonymous support communities. Moreover, asynchronous communication with reduced cues transmitted may foster positive feedback that strengthens the self-image of those acting prosocially.