DISELMA

DIGITAL MEDIA IN CHRONIC DISEASE SELF-MANAGEMENT

RESEARCH UNIT DISELMA

The research unit DISELMA (Digital Media in Chronic Disease Self-Management) examines the continued use and effects of digital chronic disease self-management in its interpersonal, organizational, and societal contexts and the pertaining phenomena on each level.

DISELMA comprises six individual projects that bring together researchers from different subdisciplines of communication science and universities across Germany to investigate the multi-level and multi-perspective topics of interest. By integrating these individual projects and employing innovative methods and research designs, DISELMA aims to specify theoretical connections between the different levels and make them fruitful for related areas. Additionally, the integrated evidence on the significance of digital media in chronic disease self-management aims to contribute to healthier conditions and empower individuals to better cope with their conditions.

Latest News and Events

DISELMA Hosts ICA 2025 Preconference

On June 12, 2025, DISELMA hosted the ICA preconference “Boon or Bane? The Role of Digital Media in Disease Prevention and Management”—a dynamic and well-attended event ahead of the International Communication Association’s annual meeting in Denver.

Annual Meeting in Munich 2025

This February, the DISELMA research unit gathered in Munich for our Annual Meeting—a three-day event filled with lively discussions, inspiring presentations, and collaborative planning. It was a great opportunity to reflect on our progress, exchange ideas, and look ahead to what’s next.

DGPuK Health Comm Conference in Lucerene

On November 22, 2024, Rebecca Kammerer and Helena Dzakula (project student assistant) from DISELMA’s IP3 “Healthcare” presented insights from their online survey of 203 physicians.

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Stay informed and connected with the latest insights from DISELMA. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates on the most recent developments in our studies on digital media in chronic disease self-management and receive invitations to our virtual events directly in your inbox.

OUR FINDINGS

Browse through our insights on digital media in chronic disease self-management, exploring its impact on the individual, interpersonal, organizational, and societal levels and between levels.

Participating Universities

The Research Unit DISELMA is funded by the German Research Foundation (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, DFG) – 456132969.