Social networks and social support in schizophrenia: correlates and assessment

Abstract

This chapter examines the concepts of social networks, their assumed structural parameters and supportive functions. Studies which have investigated social networks of people with schizophrenia are outlined and reviewed and suggestions for future research are made. The topics mentioned previously provide a context for the focus of the chapter, namely reviewing those network tools which might be considered appropriate for schizophrenic patients, bearing in mind that few network measures have been specifically developed for psychotic patients let alone schizophrenic patients. We conclude by making specific suggestions regarding suitable instruments for both clinical and research purposes.