Statistical Models for Social Support Networks

Michael E. Walker, Stanley Wasserman and Barry Wellman
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Michael E. Walker: University of Illinois
Stanley Wasserman: University of Illinois
Barry Wellman: University of Toronto

Sociological Methods & Research, 1993, vol. 22, issue 1, 71-98

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.

Date: 1993
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:sae:somere:v:22:y:1993:i:1:p:71-98

DOI: 10.1177/0049124193022001004

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