Social Support Networks: The Effects of Sex and Personality Variables on Utilization of Resources

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effects of sex and various personality characteristics on the utilization of social support resources for four types of problems (day to day problems, "most serious" problem, emotional and material problems). An interview format was used in order to assess actual events in peoples' lives. Chi-square tests were performed to determine significant differences. Gender differences were found in the use of specific network members for day to day problems. As predicted, females utilized the family more than males; and males named "no one" more than females. For emotional problems, females utilized "love" or affectionate regard as a resource more than males. The personality characteristics analyzed were societal sex role, general emotional adjustment, self-esteem/social behavior, coping skills and locus of control. A median split determined the groups. No significant differences in uses of social support resources and network members were found for masculinity, femininity, depression, anxiety, hostility or locus of control. Individuals high in self-esteem utilized their dating partners more than individuals low in self- esteem for material problems. Individuals low in self-esteem used socializing as a resource more than individuals high in self-esteem. Individuals low in problem-oriented coping skills used services more than individuals high in problem­ oriented coping skills. The interview data was analyzed to examine differences in use of resources for different types of problems. It was predicted that most effective coping occurs with the appropriate interactive fit between resource and problem. Money, goods and/or services were used most often for material problems. ''Love'' was used as a resource more for "most serious" and emotional problems. Status was a resource for day to day, ''most serious" and emotional problems.