Citation

Henderson AD. Health Care Women Int. 1989; 10(1): 61-73.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1989, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/07399338909515838

PMID

2925534

Abstract

It is recognized that individuals with healthy support systems withstand stress and crisis better than those without such support. The way in which support is used has not been specified. Using data gathered during interviews with eight women who had recently spent time in a transition house, a framework for a process of use of social support is discussed. This framework was developed using a phenomenological approach. In the framework can be found four stages that an individual passes through in using social support. Each stage is defined by a need to be met and an action the individual takes in attempting to meet that need. The specific implications for those working with clients in each of the four stages are discussed and difficulties that might occur in working with a group of clients, each at a different point in the process, are identified.

Language: en