7 Social Support and Health Free Online FlashCards

What is social support?

Social support is the help, care, information, and sense of connection people receive or believe they can receive from others.

What does the structure of social relationships describe?

Structure describes the size and frequency of a person’s social contacts.

What does the function of social relationships describe?

Function describes what social contacts provide, such as emotional reassurance or practical help.

What is emotional support?

Emotional support means listening, showing care, and offering reassurance.

What does the main-effect model propose?

The main-effect model proposes that supportive relationships can promote well-being in ordinary circumstances through belonging, positive emotion, and healthy routines.

How can relationships affect health indirectly?

Relationships can influence health through behaviors and care access—for example, encouraging activity, helping with medication reminders, or arranging a medical visit.

Why doesn’t a link between social support and health prove causation?

An association between social relationships and health does not prove that support alone caused an outcome; health, income, and living conditions can influence both.

How can support help someone manage a chronic illness?

Reliable, appropriate help can make day-to-day illness management more feasible, such as helping someone with diabetes plan meals or get to appointments.

How can social support hinder someone with chronic illness?

Criticism, pressure, unwanted advice, or overprotection can add stress or undermine a patient’s sense of control.

How do social isolation and loneliness differ?

Social isolation means having few social contacts or little participation; loneliness is distress about relationships feeling insufficient. A person can experience one without the other.

What is instrumental support?

Instrumental support is practical help, such as transportation, meals, childcare, or assistance with daily tasks.

What is informational support?

Informational support involves sharing advice, knowledge, or guidance.