Key characteristics of social support:
1) Relevance – the degree to which support meets the needs of a person at a particular moment. Example: Giving practical advice to a person facing a professional problem, not just sympathy or pity.2) Emotional responsiveness is the degree to which empathy and understanding are manifested. Example: attentive listening and encouragement when psychological stress occurs.3) Reliability and trust – the degree to which a person can count on receiving social support. Example: Making sure that friends or family will be there when needed.4) Interactive support is the quality of social interaction, accompanied by respect, understanding and acceptance. Example: Sharing experiences and feelings in a way that contributes to positive coping.