title: Social Networks in Later Life: Weighing Positive and Negative Effects on Health and Well-Being.
abstract: Social networks provide a mix of positive and negative experiences. Network members can provide help in times of need and day-to-day companionship, but they can also behave in ways that are inconsiderate, hurtful, or intrusive. Researchers must grapple with these dualities in order to develop a comprehensive understanding of how social network ties affect health and well-being. This article provides an overview of research that has examined the health-related effects of positive and negative aspects of social network involvement. If focuses on later life, a time when risks for declining health and for the loss or disruption of social relationships increase.
authors.affiliation: University of California, Irvine.
authors.forename: Karen S
authors.initials: KS
authors.lastname: Rook
keywords: health; older adults; social exchanges; social networks