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Methodological issues in social support and social network research.

P O'Reilly1

  • 1Cardiovascular Institute, Boston University School of Medicine, MA 02118.

Social Science & Medicine (1982)
|January 1, 1988
PubMed
Summary

Research on social support and social networks reveals inconsistent definitions and measurement tools. Improving clarity and rigor in defining and measuring these concepts is crucial for understanding their impact on health status.

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Area of Science:

  • Social Sciences
  • Health Sciences
  • Psychology

Background:

  • Numerous studies explore the link between social support/networks and health.
  • Methodological rigor in this research area requires critical evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the current status of research on social support and social networks.
  • To focus on the clarity of definitions and the validity/reliability of measurement instruments.

Main Methods:

  • Reviewed 33 instruments used in social support and social network research.
  • Assessed conceptual definitions, operationalization of variables, and reported validity/reliability data.

Main Results:

  • Found modest agreement in conceptual definitions, with frequent ambiguity.

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  • Identified significant definitional confusion between social support and social network.
  • Observed limited or inadequate data on the validity and reliability of many instruments.

    • Conclusions:

    • There is a need to clarify essential elements of social support and social networks.
    • Distinguishing behavioral (support) from structural (network) variables is important for health status research.
    • More rigorous standards for instrument validity and reliability are necessary to enhance predictive utility.