SOCIAL SUPPORT: A FIELDWORK STUDY OF ADJUSTING TO LIFE IN A NURSING HOME (ELDERLY).
Contributors: University of Rhode Island.
Published: 1992
Number of pages: 250
Subjects: Health Sciences, Nursing.; Gerontology.
Description: The concept of social support has intuitive appeal as a subject of inquiry for the practice of nursing. However, despite the abundant literature in the area of social support and the general consensus regarding its beneficial effects, there remains a dearth of empirical research examining the factors influencing the process of social support within diverse contexts and the specific behaviors perceived as supportive during stressful life events. The purposes of this exploratory study were to: (a) identify and describe contextual features (environmental and personal) within the nursing home which may influence social support; (b) identify and describe those behaviors perceived by residents as supportive/nonsupportive during their adjustment to living in a nursing home and their source; and (c) explain how the contextual features influence perceptions of support. Participant observation was conducted in three phases over 12 months.

In Phase I, environmental features (physical, social, symbolic) were identified that either facilitated or impeded social interaction, and in turn social support, among residents and others (e.g.: lack of areas for small group interaction, restraint policy). Secondly, personal features of the residents, (e.g.: hearing, physical strength) influenced interaction as well.

Phase II, sequential interviews over six months of newly admitted residents unexpectedly reflected negligible change in perceptions of type or source of support over time. Emotional support and practical assistance emerged as the primary supportive/nonsupportive behaviors from others. Advice/guidance support was not mentioned by residents. Nursing staff formed the major source of all behaviors. Key informants differed from new admits in the ability to extend support to others. Lastly, the perception of supportive behaviors appeared to be contingent upon the character of the interaction and the mode in which the behavior was communicated. Phase III included exiting the field, final data analysis, and write-up.

Theoretically the findings support social interaction as an intervening variable between contextual features and perceptions of support. Social exchange and symbolic interaction may be valuable to guide future support research in this setting. Clinically, support interventions are suggested at the group and social system levels.
Notes: Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 53-08, Section: B, page: 4034.

Thesis (PH.D.)--UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND, 1992.

School code: 0186.