Conceptual Model

The social networks & social support conceptual model shows how supportive connections between people (or other entities) influence physical, mental and social health. The model consists of 5 hypothesized relationships between social networks providing social support and health.

It is important to note that the concepts discussed in the previous two sections lie in the top box labeled "Social Networks & Social Support." Therefore, the concepts discussed earlier are used to describe the composition of a social network and type of support provided by that network, while the model illustrates several ways a network may influence health.

Key Constructs Conceptual Model