Seeking Social Support

Abstract

This study tested predictions made by social resources models of the choice of network ties for help in situations requiring support. According to this perspective, help seekers should choose ties based on the nature of the problem (practical or emotional) and on the resource strengths of different types of ties (instrumental aid or expressive aid). We distinguished the separate practical and emotional concerns represented in 10 different problems and tested whether subjects choose ties based on these characteristics. Results indicate an overwhelming preference for strong ties regardless of the perceived characteristics of the problem. Moreover, prior experience and the structure of the interpersonal network affected choices. We conclude that social resources models that predict choice of social supporters need to be refined by differentiating the nature of specific resources possessed by strong and weak ties as well as by consideration of the complete network structure.