%0 Journal Article
%@ 2561-6722
%I JMIR Publications
%V 6
%N 
%P e40043
%T How People Use Web-Based Parenting Information to Support Others in Their Social Circle: Qualitative Descriptive Study
%A El Sherif,Reem
%A Pluye,Pierre
%A Paquet,Virginie
%A Ibekwe,Fidelia
%A Grad,Roland
%+ Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Suite 300, Ch Cotes-des-neiges, Montreal, QC, H3S 1Z1, Canada, 1 5143987375, reem.elsherif@mail.mcgill.ca
%K consumer health information
%K information seeking behavior
%K child development
%K child health
%K information outcomes
%K health information
%K digital health
%K parenting
%K web-based information
%D 2023
%7 28.4.2023
%9 Original Paper
%J JMIR Pediatr Parent
%G English
%X Background: Almost two-thirds of the North American population have searched for health information on the web, and the majority report searching on behalf of someone else in their social circle, a phenomenon referred to as proxy seeking. Little is known about how proxy seekers use web-based health information and the outcomes they experience. Objective: The main aim of this study was to explore why proxy seekers used a parenting website on behalf of parents in their social circle and the outcomes they reported. Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted in the context of a partnership with a web-based parenting resource to explore the contexts and motivations for proxy web-based health information seeking, use of information, and subsequent outcomes. A total of 14 participants who self-identified as family members, friends of parents of young children, or professionals who worked with young children were interviewed, and a thematic analysis was conducted. Results: The following 4 reasons for proxy seeking were uncovered: for reassurance, out of personal curiosity, as part of a professional role, or following an explicit request from the parents. Information was used to provide informational support for parents or material support for a child. Positive outcomes of using the information and some of the resulting interpersonal tensions were described. Conclusions: This study provides an in-depth look at proxy seeking behavior and outcomes among users of a web-based parenting resource. 
%M 37115603
%R 10.2196/40043
%U https://pediatrics.jmir.org/2023/1/e40043
%U https://doi.org/10.2196/40043
%U http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/37115603