title: Formal and informal social networks of women with serious mental illness.
abstract: The case study method was used to describe formal and informal social networks of four women with serious mental illness and to capture what happens in network interactions. Supportive roles were identified, with significant overlap between roles performed by formal and informal network members. In contrast to many studies, this study's participants all showed reciprocity in relationships. Network relationships, while supportive, often were conflicted. Themes related to stability of relationships were identified. Practice recommendations include recognition of each person's "context" apart from his or her illness and the importance of capitalizing on positive factors within the person's life context. Further research is needed to identify confirming and contradictory findings.
authors.affiliation: College of Nursing, Arizona State University, PO Box 872602, Tempe, AZ 85287-2602, USA. judith.pickens@asu.edu
authors.forename: Judith M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Pickens
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000451:nursing*; D008875:Middle Aged; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D012737:Sex Factors; D012944:Social Support