The Perceived Benefits of Similar Other, Significant Other, and Similar-Significant Other Social Support

• In Event: 4467 - Section on Social Psychology Refereed Roundtables (Cosponsored with Section on Sociology of Emotions)
  In Refereed Roundtable 100min: Table 10: Social Ties and Relationships

Abstract

Scholarship shows there are many benefits of social support, yet theoretical questions remain as to whether the efficacy of support might depend upon its source. Drawing on in-depth interviews with a sample of collegiate athletes experiencing ongoing role-related strains, this research examined the perceived utility of significant other, similar other, and similar-significant other support. Findings suggest each of these providers fulfilled a different support function. Experientially similar, expert others were consulted on a limited basis for their expertise in context-specific stressors. Significant others were sought out for their ongoing, steadfast commitment to and expert knowledge of respondents’ emotional needs. And a particularly valued resource, experientially similar, significant others were solicited for their ability to tailor support to match the needs of both the individual and his or her stressful circumstances. Lending support to existing theory, findings highlight the potential utility of support interventions directed at cultivating similar-significant other relationships.

Author

• Sarah Jean Hatteberg, The College of Charleston