Abstract
The “kind ear” provided by hairstylists (stylists) can be an important source of informal social support for their clients, yet little empirical research exists that examines this resource. In this study, the authors investigated the relationships and helping behaviors of stylists with one particular group of clients— older adults. Forty ( N = 40) stylists from 31 randomly selected salons completed mail-based surveys. Stylists reported that their relationships with older clients were generally very close. When these older clients raised problems and concerns, stylists employed several different helping techniques, including showing sympathy and support. Stylists also reported that they were able to recognize symptoms of depression, dementia, and self-neglect. Finally, a number of stylists indicated that they would be interested in receiving formal training in mental health. These findings point toward the potential inclusion of stylists in community gatekeeper programs that provide an important link between informal and formal helping networks.
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