Drivers and barriers of using online social networking technologies among people living with HIV/AIDS in Iran

Introduction. Online social network technologies have been widely used to enhance HIV prevention, diagnosis, and treatment programs; however, little is known about the current use and potential drivers and barriers of these technologies among Iranian people living with HIV. Method. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 people living with HIV/AIDS already using online social network technologies. Analysis. Thematic analysis was used to analyse interviews. Results. Results showed that the average time spent on online social network platforms was 3.5-5.7 hours daily. Peer groups and pre-existing platforms (groups) established by health care providers or community-based organisations were frequently used by people living with HIV/AIDS for communication. Seeking and sharing health information and personal experiences, staying connected with peers and care providers, and social support exchange were major drivers for using online social network platforms. Cross-posting of users or sharing irrelevant or disappointing posts, gender issues, and poor engagement of users were reported as major barriers to online social network use among respondents. Conclusions. Our findings indicated that online social network technologies have empowered Iranian people living with HIV/AIDS, making them more connected, safe, and able to access HIV/AIDS-related information and services. Future studies are needed to investigate the feasibility and acceptability of these interventions among key populations including sex workers and injection drug users.