Negative online health behavioursInternet health support groups can also face problems when targeted by individuals with factitious disorder. In Munchausen by Internet (MBI) [26] an individual seeks attention by playing out a series of dramatic near-fatal illnesses, alternating with recoveries that increasingly strain credulity. In-fighting in the wake of such deceptive postings has destroyed many support groups.

Finally, the online ‘pro-anorexia’ movement [27] supports those with anorexia but adopts an anti-recovery perspective with some websites discussing the need for recovery yet providing tips on how to fast and deceive medical professionals. There are similar movements in other diseases such as chronic fatigue syndrome supporters who advise abundant rest and avoidance of activity for sufferers, in direct opposition to medical thinking [28] and people with diabetes can learn from forums about non-prescribed ways to use (misuse) their insulin for weight loss [21].
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