Psychological Social Support and its Effects on Longevity and Mortality

Abstract

This thesis examines the effects of psychological social support on longevity and mortality. It picks up where House and colleagues left off in their classic1988 review published in Science. A thorough summary is provided of recent studies and measures that pertain to the health effects of the psychological dimension of social support. First, the background and history of the social support concept is detailed. Second, theories and research findings are summarized and elaborated. Third, implications for research on social support are discussed. This thesis seeks to contribute a new, integrative outlook on social support and health research based on studies conducted over the past few decades.