The use of social networks to help cancer patients maximize support

Abstract

Social support may act as a buffer to mediate negative effects of illness. Social network concepts provide a useful structure for understanding how support may be delivered. These concepts have recently been operationalized, and various kinds of networks have been studied in community and clinical settings. Since support is multidimensional and complex, methodological and conceptual problems have been encountered. Possible strategies for assessing and measuring social networks and social support of cancer patients are outlined. Once a patient has been made aware of his network and the support available through it, ways for maximization of both can be suggested. The hospital-based cancer care system may be supplemented by social support from the community.