Author:
Gariépy Geneviève,Honkaniemi Helena,Quesnel-Vallée Amélie
Abstract
BackgroundNumerous studies report an association between social support and protection from depression, but no systematic review or meta-analysis exists on this topic.AimsTo review systematically the characteristics of social support (types and source) associated with protection from depression across life periods (childhood and adolescence; adulthood; older age) and by study design (cross-sectionalv. cohort studies).MethodA systematic literature search conducted in February 2015 yielded 100 eligible studies. Study quality was assessed using a critical appraisal checklist, followed by meta-analyses.ResultsSources of support varied across life periods, with parental support being most important among children and adolescents, whereas adults and older adults relied more on spouses, followed by family and then friends. Significant heterogeneity in social support measurement was noted. Effects were weaker in both magnitude and significance in cohort studies.ConclusionsKnowledge gaps remain due to social support measurement heterogeneity and to evidence of reverse causality bias.
Publisher
Royal College of Psychiatrists
Subject
Psychiatry and Mental health
Cited by
636 articles.
订阅此论文施引文献
订阅此论文施引文献,注册后可以免费订阅5篇论文的施引文献,订阅后可以查看论文全部施引文献