Social support networks of the population of Slovenia

One of the most important aspects of researching social networks is the connection with
broad areas of social support, both in the field of mental and physical health, and
social intervention programmes (from the family to the wider community and the workplace and school).
In this area, it is possible to explore the structure and modus operandi of informal networks
people’s social support – who people turn to when they are in need (for example, in emotionally stressed situations)
situations such as the death of a close family member, serious illness, etc.),
what effects these interactions have on their health and general well-being, which
factors influence this. It is also possible to explore the level of satisfaction of people with social
support and what factors influence it. Based on these results, it is possible to plan.
various specific social assistance programmes. The aim of the study was to provide data on a large scale.
a representative sample to examine the characteristics of informal social support networks (such as:
their size and structure, the characteristics of relations within these networks - proximity, frequency of contacts
the population of Slovenia, both in general and by some key demographic
characteristics (e.g., gender, age, education). Particular emphasis was placed on the study of networks
social support for vulnerable social groups, such as the poor, the elderly, people with physical disabilities. In the research is
The use and importance of formal sources of social support has also been studied. Results
research on social support networks is useful as a basis for better organisation of new ones,
alternative and complementary forms of assistance by state or non-governmental institutions
the existing support is supplemented and upgraded or attempted to be replaced in cases where
the support does not exist or is completely inadequate. This is especially true for specific groups.
the population most in need of such assistance (older people, people with disabilities, families with
preschool children, etc.).