关键词: 网络疑病, 焦虑, 定性研究

Abstract: Objective　To explore the pathogenesis of cyberchondria and its impact on individuals.Methods　Study design was qualitative.In January 2016，one-to-one semi-structured interviews were carried out in a random sample of 6 persons who scored high on Chinese version of Cyberchondria Severity Scale（≥36.50）and Chinese version of Short Health Anxiety Inventory（≥44.52） for collecting the data about the frequencies of searching the information concerning health/illness，source of information，reactions after searching，and impact of searching on oneself.Data obtained were organized and analyzed using NVivo 11 and grounded theory.Results　Participants demonstrated a good understanding of the strengths and limitations of online health/illness-related information.Reactions after searching mainly include the following 3 aspects——cognitive reactions：spending time on searching for such information online was thought to be helpful，worthwhile and necessary；emotional reactions：being scared/confused of and worried/anxious about their own conditions；behavioral reactions：self-diagnosis and self-treatment/medication were attempted to be conducted，or seeking healthcare in hospitals or continuing to search the relevant information.Causes for long-term prevalence of cyberchondria cover the following 4 aspects：insufficient explanations related to treatment given by professional physicians，self-perceived poor health status，poor tolerance of uncertainty and perfectionism.Conclusion　Contradictory emotional and cognitive reactions can be found in individuals with cyberchondria after searching health/illness-related information online，which，together with the causes of cyberchondria，can be used as the basis for monitoring such information and delivering clinical interventions.

Key words: Cyberchondria, Anxiety, Qualitative research