The Architecture of Support Networks: Comparing the Support Roles of Network Contacts

• In Event: 343 - Section on Medical Sociology Roundtables (one-hour)
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 05. Social Capital, Social Support, and Health

Abstract

The information, resources, and support that flows through social networks shape people’s abilities to cope with illness, health care behavior, and health outcomes. Yet, network contacts are differentially equipped to provide tailored health-related information and support. This study examines differences in the resources, information, and support accessed from different kinds of network contacts. Using the case of families coping with pediatric cancer, we use mixed-methods data (N = 80 parents) to examine (1) if parents activate different types of network ties to access tailored information, resources or support; and, (2) differences in the nature or utility of information, resources, or support offered by different types of network contacts. Findings contribute to theoretical approaches to understanding social network activation, and show that parents activated different network contacts for tailored resources to aid in coping with their child’s cancer. Family, friends, and neighbors offered logistical support that aided balancing preexisting work and household responsibilities. Parents activated new ties to other families coping with cancer and health-related professionals for tailored health-related emotional and informational support.

Authors

• Elizabeth Gage-Bouchard, State University of New York-Buffalo

• Susan LaValley, State University of New York-Buffalo

• Christina Panagakis, State University of New York-Buffalo

• Rachel C. Shelton, Columbia University