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Statistical Models for Social Support Networks

Author

Listed:
  • MICHAEL E. WALKER

    (University of Illinois)

  • STANLEY WASSERMAN

    (University of Illinois)

  • BARRY WELLMAN

    (University of Toronto)

Abstract

In recent years, the conceptualization of social support in the literature has become increasingly sophisticated, facilitating the consideration of more complex theories. Researchers no longer consider the mere availability of social ties, but look instead at the flow of specific resources through a social network. This article discusses how the social network has been defined in the context of social support. Research is reviewed, indicating how characteristics of individual tie (e.g., tie strength, proximity, frequency of contact, similarity) are related to the provision of support. Also examined are how characteristics of the personal network (e.g., size, density) relate to support and wellbeing. Statistical models for network analysis and how they should prove useful in studying social support are then discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Michael E. Walker & Stanley Wasserman & Barry Wellman, 1993. "Statistical Models for Social Support Networks," Sociological Methods & Research, , vol. 22(1), pages 71-98, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:somere:v:22:y:1993:i:1:p:71-98
    DOI: 10.1177/0049124193022001004
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Hammer, Muriel, 1983. "'Core' and 'extended' social networks in relation to health and illness," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 17(7), pages 405-411, January.
    2. Seeman, Teresa E. & Berkman, Lisa F., 1988. "Structural characteristics of social networks and their relationship with social support in the elderly: Who provides support," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 26(7), pages 737-749, January.
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    Cited by:

    1. Kim Klyver & Benson Honig & Paul Steffens, 2018. "Social support timing and persistence in nascent entrepreneurship: exploring when instrumental and emotional support is most effective," Small Business Economics, Springer, vol. 51(3), pages 709-734, October.
    2. Hongxin Zhao, 2015. "Are Social Ties Always Valuable to Knowledge Search? Contextualizing Knowledge Search by Foreign Subsidiary Executives in an Emerging Economy," Management International Review, Springer, vol. 55(4), pages 511-538, August.
    3. Blakeslee, Jennifer & Kothari, Brianne H. & McBeath, Bowen & Sorenson, Paul & Bank, Lew, 2017. "Network indicators of the social ecology of adolescents in relative and non-relative Foster households," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 73(C), pages 173-181.

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