Social Relations

Excerpt

Social relations are any relationship or interaction between 2 or more individuals. Interest in social relationships and resulting support began a century ago when the French sociologist Emile Durkheim postulated that disruptions in social networks could influence psychological health. Consequently, theoretical models conceptualizing social support as a multifaceted construct have emerged. Models typically include the concepts of social integration, or level of involvement in relationships, such as marriage or group membership, and the emotional, tangible, or practical support from others that serves a functional purpose. An individual's acknowledgment or fulfillment of social roles may beneficially influence self-esteem and provide a sense of meaning or controllability to life. It is also important to consider the converse or social conflict, as there are important consequences to emotional and physical health for the socially isolated individual, one who lacks social connections, or those for whom relationships serve as a source of stress.