Social Support Systems Buffer Against Negative Effects
Stigma, discrimination, and marginalization are common experiences for many individuals, particularly those who identify with marginalized identities such as LGBTQ+, people of color, women, persons with disabilities, immigrants, and low-income communities. These negative experiences can have significant impacts on mental health and well-being, leading to increased stress, anxiety, depression, and even suicide.
Research has found that social support systems can buffer against these negative effects by providing emotional and practical support to help individuals cope with stigmatizing experiences. In this article, we will explore how social support systems work and provide examples of effective ways to implement them.
Social support is defined as "a network of relationships that provides resources (e.g., material goods, informational, esteem) and services (e.g., companionship, emotional, instrumental) to individuals or groups" (Cohen & Wills, 1985, p. 246). This means that social support involves both tangible and intangible forms of assistance that individuals receive from others in their community. Research has shown that social support can be an important protective factor against the negative consequences of stigma, discrimination, and marginalization, especially when it comes from a group that shares similar identity markers as the individual receiving support (Szymanski & Mossakowski, 2013; Szymanski et al., 2017).
Members of minority groups may experience greater psychological benefits from social support provided by other members of their community compared to support received from dominant groups. One study found that gay men who received social support from fellow LGBTQ+ individuals reported lower levels of depressive symptoms than those who did not (Duberstein et al., 2010).
One way to create effective social support systems is through peer-to-peer mentorship programs. These programs pair individuals from marginalized communities with trained mentors who have shared identities and life experiences. The mentors can provide guidance, advice, and emotional support to help mentees navigate their own personal challenges related to identity and marginalization. Another way to create social support systems is through affinity spaces, such as LGBTQ+ centers on college campuses or Black student unions at universities. These spaces provide a safe environment for individuals to connect with each other, share resources, and build relationships. Affinity spaces also offer opportunities for skill development, leadership training, and advocacy work, which can further strengthen the social support system within the community.
Another strategy is to promote social connection through online platforms and digital media. This approach has become increasingly popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, when in-person gatherings are limited due to health concerns. Social media can be used to create virtual communities where individuals can share stories, ask questions, and seek out information about relevant topics. Online forums and discussion boards allow people to connect with others across geographic boundaries and foster meaningful connections based on shared interests and identities.
Social media platforms can be used to amplify underrepresented voices and perspectives, providing valuable educational resources and information for individuals seeking support.
Social support systems play an important role in buffering against the negative effects of stigma, discrimination, and marginalization. By creating effective peer-to-peer mentorship programs, affinity spaces, and online platforms, we can create stronger networks of support that empower individuals and build resilience against these challenges. As we continue to face new forms of stigmatizing experiences and discriminatory policies, it is essential that we prioritize social support systems as a key component of promoting mental health and wellness for all individuals.
How do social support systems buffer against the negative effects of stigma, discrimination, and marginalization?
Studies have shown that social support networks can play an important role in reducing the negative impacts associated with being marginalized, discriminated, or stigmatized by others due to characteristics such as race, gender, sexual orientation, age, physical appearance, or socioeconomic status (Cole et al. , 2015).