Social Support Flashcards
Social Support
The exchange of resources between two or more people perceived by the provider and receiver to enhance the wellbeing of the recipient.
Reciprocity
Extent to which a person receives support and provides it to others.
Types of Social Support
Instrumental - material support
Emotional - legitimise emotions
Esteem - activities that reinforce the value of the person
Informational - advice and guidance
Belongingness - social activities that enhance a sense of belonging
Sources of Support
Quality over quantity. Need intimate and confiding relationships for emotional support. Need credibility for informational support.
Social Support and Health
High levels of quality social support leads to faster recovery, lower mortality rates and greater psychological wellbeing.
Buffering Hypothesis
Social support protects people from the negative effects of high stress which is beneficial for health.
Direct Effect Hypothesis
Social support influences attitudes towards health behaviours which is good at any level of stress.
Matching Hypothesis
Type of social support needed depends on the situation (uncontrollable situation = emotional support, controllable situation = practical support)
Increasing Social Support
Social skills training, support groups and self-help groups, workplace programs.
