The term “social support” often appears in discussions of relationship. Social support is having friends and other people, including family, to turn to in times of need or crisis to give you a broader focus on a problem and positive self-image. Social support enhances quality of life and provides a buffer against adverse life events.

Social support can take different forms:

• Emotional (sometimes called non-tangible) support refers to the actions people take to make someone else feel cared for.
• Instrumental support refers to the physical, such as money and housekeeping.
• Informational support means providing information to help someone.

How can I benefit?

Social support, whether from a trusted group or valued individual, has been shown to reduce the psychological and physiological consequences of stress, and may enhance immune function. Social networks, whether formal (such as a church or social club) or informal (meeting with friends) provide a sense of belonging, security, and community.

In fact, social support is now proven to be a literal life-saver. People that are supported by close relationships with friends, family, or fellow members of church, work, or other support groups are less vulnerable to ill health and premature death. Individuals afflicted with leukemia or heart disease have higher survival rates if they have extensive social support. There is also a strong tie between social support and measures of well-being. Those who have close personal relationships cope better with various stressors including bereavement, job loss, rape, and illness. (See Salovey, 2000.)

Are there any cautions?

With any social support network, make sure you feel comfortable with the group’s beliefs, practices, and expectations. While it’s unrealistic to think you’ll never experience any disagreement with your friends, family, or other social support network, remember that spending time with them should make you feel accepted, peaceful, and energized, not coerced or anxious.

References

Below is some research and some good books written for the general public.

• Why Love Matters. New York: Brunner-Routledge.
• Lewis, T., et. al. (2001.) A General Theory of Love. New York: Vintage Books.
Pennebaker, J. (1990.) Opening Up: The Healing Power of Confiding in Others. New York: Morrow.
• Salovey, P., Rothman, A., Detweiler, J., & Steward, W. (2000.) Emotional States and Physical Health. American Psychologist, Vol. 55, No. 1, January.
• Taylor, S. et.al., (2000.) Psychological Resources, Positive Illusions, and Health. American Psychologist, Vol. 55, No. 1, January.

 

Expert contributor: Michael Maley, PhD
Date: April, 2006.

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