Question

Relative to those with low levels of social support, individuals with high levels of social support ___________. a. are more likely to develop asthma b. tend to have less perceived control c. are more likely to develop cardiovascular disorders d. tend to tolerate stress well

Short answer

d. tend to tolerate stress well.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Concept of Social Support

Social support refers to the psychological and material resources provided by a social network, which are aimed at helping individuals cope with stress. It's seen as a major factor in individuals' ability to deal with stress and life difficulties.

Evaluating the Options

Evaluate each of the four options individually: (a) There is no established direct link between social support and the development of asthma. (b) Higher levels of social support usually make individuals feel that they have more control over their conditions, not less. (c) Like asthma, there is no direct link between social support and the development of cardiovascular disorders. (d) Social support indeed has been found to help individuals tolerate stress well as it provides a buffer against adverse effects of stress.

Choose the Correct Option

Based on the assessment above, the most valid statement is that individuals with high levels of social support tend to tolerate stress well.

Key concepts

Stress Management

Stress management is a critical component of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It involves techniques and practices that help individuals reduce their stress levels, thereby improving their overall well-being. Understanding how to manage stress is beneficial, not just for psychological health, but also for physical health, as chronic stress can contribute to various health issues such as heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

Managing stress effectively can include a variety of strategies such as regular physical activity, which releases endorphins and improves mood, relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation, time management to avoid feeling overwhelmed, and establishing a support network of friends and family. Incorporating these practices into daily life can significantly diminish the severity and frequency of stress responses. When individuals maintain proper stress management routines, they often experience increased productivity, improved relationships, and a more optimistic outlook on life.

Moreover, when confronting challenges, having access to social support can amplify stress management efforts, providing emotional comfort and practical assistance, thereby making stressful situations easier to navigate. In practice, people with high levels of social support tend to report better stress management and are usually more resilient in the face of life's pressures.

Psychological Well-Being

Psychological well-being is not merely the absence of mental health problems; it represents a positive state of mental health that is characterized by feelings of contentment, fulfillment, and purpose. It's a multifaceted concept that includes factors such as self-acceptance, positive relations with others, personal growth, purpose in life, environmental mastery, and autonomy.

Achieving and maintaining psychological well-being is a continuous process that involves balancing various aspects of life, personal growth, managing one's emotions, and developing positive relationships. Engagement in meaningful activities, pursuing personal goals, and recognizing one's strengths are among the practices that can lead to enhanced well-being.

Social support plays a significant role in psychological well-being. It not only assists individuals in dealing with stress but also contributes positively to their sense of belonging, self-esteem, and purpose. Those who perceive that they have supportive relationships are generally more confident in their ability to face life's challenges, leading to improved mental health outcomes.

Social Networks in Psychology

Social networks in psychology refer to the intricate web of relationships and connections we maintain in our social lives. These networks include family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances, and they significantly impact our mental health and well-being. The quality of these social relationships can greatly influence our behavior, attitudes, and stress levels.

An individual's social network provides various types of support, such as emotional support (offering empathy and caring), informational support (sharing knowledge and advice), and instrumental support (providing tangible aid and services). Having a network that supplies these supports can help manage life's stresses and buffer against negative outcomes. For example, during a crisis, individuals with a robust social network are more likely to receive the assistance they need to cope effectively.

Furthermore, the sense of belonging and increased self-worth derived from positive social interactions contribute to individuals' psychological resilience. Investing time in nurturing one's social network is essential for not only immediate stress relief but for long-term psychological health, promoting a sense of community, shared values, and mutual support.