Applying Social Support Research: Theoretical Problems and Future Directions

Abstract

Two independent research traditions have evolved that deal with social support‐an analytic tradition that emphasizes theory‐based tests of hypotheses and an applied tradition that emphasizes evaluations of interventions. This paper seeks to stimulate feedback between these two traditions by examining how implicit assumptions and conceptual distinctions embedded within the analytic literature translate into suggestions for intervention. Assumptions that bear on the soundness of undertaking interventions of any kind are considered first, followed by assumptions that bear on the conceptualization of specific intervention strategies. Issues that underlie efforts to implement interventions (e.g., funding, staffing) are also discussed. Examples of research questions that explicitly link the analytic and applied traditions are provided.

How Does Perceived Support Lead to Better Performance? An Examination of Potential Mechanisms

“…The relationship between perceptions of support and support actually received is only moderate (Barrera, 1986;Bianco & Eklund, 2001;Dunkel-Schetter & Bennett, 1990), and the receipt of support does not necessarily lead to an increase in perceived support (Rook & Dooley, 1985). On the other hand, Norris and Kaniasty (1996), using a longitudinal design, found that received support did affect perceived support over time.…”

The continuity principle: A unified approach to disaster and trauma

“…Thus, the relationship between vulnerability to stress and variables such as social support (Cohen & Wills, 1985;Rook & Dooley, 1985), coping skills (Elias et al, 1986), and the preservation of roles (Heller, 1990) has given rise to considerable research and lively controversy. The continuity principle stresses the permanence and coherence of the different factors, rather than their presence or absence.…”

Émotions et transitions : problématiques et contributions empiriques internationales

“…Schlossberg, Waters et Goodman (Schlossberg, 2005 ;Schlossberg, Waters & Goodman, 1995), dont Gingras et Sylvain (1998) ont exposé la conception générale dans la présente revue, reconnaît aux soutiens sociaux un poids considérable dans les transitions professionnelles et personnelles. Les soutiens sociaux sont généralement étudiés du point de vue de la perception qu'en ont les individus et des corrélations de celle-ci avec différents paramètres de l'adaptation (voir par exemple Rook & Dooley, 1985). Les processus en jeu dans la transaction interpersonnelle par laquelle est fourni le soutien social sont plus rarement analysés.…”