The Availability and Effective Use of Social Support

A general stress theory, termed “conservation of resouces,” is presented, which is based on people's tendency to conserve the quantity and quality of their resources. Using this model as a backdrop, research is presented concerning personal and social factors that result in greater social support. Research is also presented that illustrates how some resources that facilitate receipt of support may be depleted during stressful circumstances, whereas other resources serve a management function in that they control the effective use of aid. Findings of studies that examine factors that facilitate social support are applied to social support interventions.