Pola Komunikasi antar Pribadi Penderita Lupus pada Komunitas Cinta Kupu Provinsi Sumatera Utara

Abstract

The objective of this study is to analyze interpersonal communication patterns of lupus patients at the Cinta Kupu Community. The main points in this study discuss the interpersonal communication patterns of lupus patients, self-disclosure, initial conditions of lupus diagnosis, and self-concept of lupus patients. This study uses a qualitative research method with a phenomenological paradigm as a way of thinking. Using this approach, researcher tries to understand the meaning of events and situations experienced by lupus patients. There are six informants in this study: four key informants and two triangulation informants. Data collection in this study is conducted through interviews and observation (overt-participant} methods. The study finds that the interpersonal communication patterns of people with lupus are influenced by internal and external factors. These internal factors include the desire to have children, fulfilling life's needs as social creatures, the desire to survive, and the need to communicate with others. External factors include empathy, motivation (support) as well as imitation and self-proving. When these factors work, interpersonal communication between people with lupus in society can run well and harmoniously. The study also discusses the effects of self-disclosure resulting from the self-acceptance of lupus disease, which affects all aspects of their lives through the Cinta Kupu Community.