title: Measuring social support: a synthesis of current approaches.
abstract: Definitions and concepts of social support are reviewed in an attempt to develop a theoretical structure for future research. Fourteen techniques for measuring social support are assessed to ascertain the degree to which they reflect common theoretical elements. A paradigm that should help to focus research efforts on the construction of a systematic knowledge base about social support is proposed.
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D011581:Psychological Tests; D012931:Social Environment; D012944:Social Support