Social Support and Social Networks, and Coronary Heart Disease and Rehabilitation

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Abstract
This paper examines the nature of social support and social network variables and their relation to coronary heart disease (CHD). In the first section, the dimensions along which social support varies (emotional /material, manifest/potential, perceived/objective, quantity/quality) are discussed. Several social network characteristics that have been found to be associated with health are also examined. Next, the evidence for a relationship between social support and social networks and CUD is reviewed. Those aspects of social support and social networks that appear most likely to be involved in the prevention of CUD and rehabilitation from heart attacks are defined and evaluated. The most promising variables are found to be the number and intimacy of social ties; satisfaction with social activities, work, and financial status; perceived opportunity for discussing problems; and level of social interaction. Further research on those variables mid their relationship to CHD is recommended.

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