Social Connectedness and Health Flashcards
(35 cards)
What is social connectedness?
It refers to the degree to which individuals feel close to, supported by, and involved in meaningful relationships with others.
What is social capital?
The ability to access social resources through relationships and networks within a community.
How is unequal social capital linked to health inequality?
Unequal access to social capital contributes to health disparities between communities or groups.
What is internalised stigma?
- individuals adopt and believe negative societal views about themselves
- often harming self-esteem and wellbeing. (e.g. internalized homophobia)
How does social identity influence health?
Group membership influences:
- self-esteem,
- behaviour
- health-related decision-making.
What is the purpose of protective interventions in the context of social connectedness and health?
- To enhance social support, reduce isolation, and improve mental and physical wellbeing
- by strengthening relationships and community ties.
Name three types of protective interventions that support social connectedness.
- Group-based therapies and support groups
- community programmes
- digital interventions (e.g., online communities).
How do group-based therapies promote social connectedness?
- provideS shared spaces for individuals to connect, express emotions, and build mutual understanding
- Reduces loneliness and fostering belonging.
What is one advantage of digital interventions in promoting social connection?
They provide access to support for individuals who may face physical, geographic, or psychological barriers to in-person interaction
How can community interventions reduce health inequalities?
- By creating inclusive social environments
- Improving access to social capital for disadvantaged populations.
What emotional mechanisms link relationships to health?
Affect regulation—relationships influence mood, motivation, arousal, and emotional valence.
How do cognitive processes link social connection to health?
- They shape risk perception
- help-seeking behaviour
- problem-solving strategies.
What identity-based mechanisms affect health outcomes?
- Self-esteem
- participation
- experiences of stigma
How does social support reduce stress biologically?
It lowers cortisol levels and improves immune functioning.
What is the social cure perspective?
The idea that group membership can protect against mental illness and promote recovery (Jetten et al., 2012).
What contribution did House et al. (1988) make to this field?
Published a review that shows that loneliness increases mortality risk
What was the focus of Baumeister & Leary’s (1995) review?
It proposed that belongingness is a basic psychological need connected to attachment, cognition, and wellbeing.
What problem did early research on social relationships and health face?
- Fragmentation—studies were separated by age group, geography, or context,
- made synthesis and application difficult.
Name one trait that might HINDER social connectedness.
- Introversion
- Neurodiversity
- Low telicity (goal-orientation).
How does attachment style affect relationship formation?
- Secure attachment fosters trust and connection
- insecure attachment can lead to avoidance or anxiety.
What role (in ppl) does emotional regulation play in social connection?
- It helps individuals manage conflict
- Maintain relationships effectively.
What was the aim of the UK’s Sure Start programme?
To increase social capital among parents, children/young ppl in marginalised communities.
What outcomes were linked to Sure Start?
- Improved home environments
- later indirect health benefits.
Why was the closure of Sure Start criticised?
The full benefits of social investment in health take time to emerge and were not fully realised.
