social support

Question 1

define social support

Answer 1

term given to an individual, feeling of being valued and cared for by their social network
or
how well the individual is embedded into a network of communication and social obligation

Question 2

benefits of social support on health

Answer 2

• faster recovery
• reduced anxiety
• increased life satisfaction
• improve immune function
• reduced risk of cancer

Question 3

aspects of social support

Answer 3

functional aspects - amount of support provided by the individuals social network

structural aspects - number of personal ties and network density including formal and informal social groups

Question 4

types of functional support and examples

Answer 4

• emotional e.g. care, love, empathy
• instrumental e.g. providing tangible goods and services, money, car etc
• informational e.g. info in time of need
• appraisal e.g. feedback, guidance

Question 5

describe motivational interviewing

Answer 5

• therapeutic style also influences behaviour change
• expressing empathy
• reflective listening
• avoid argumentation
• rolling with resistance
• supporting self-efficacy

Question 6

how does social support effect health

Answer 6

1. improves adherence
2. influences health behaviour and lifestyle
3. buffers against stress
4. protects against psychiatric disorders & cognitive decline