Stress and Social Support—in Search of Optimal Matching

Abstract

Theoretical and practical advantages are discussed of a model that specifies the type of social support that is most beneficial (i.e., most effective in preventing deleterious physical or mental health consequences) following different kinds of stressful life events. Prior attempts to specify such optimal combinations of stress and social support are reviewed, and a new optimal matching model is proposed. Issues that must be addressed in the validation of optimal stress-support models are discussed, and methodological suggestions for future research endeavors in this area are offered.