Social support among women veterans

The beneficial effects of social support on well-being have been shown in v arious studies. Less is known about factors which constrain or enhance the availability of social support. The present study profiles social support a mong women veterans and attempts to identify factors which enhance or const rain perceptions of support and social integration for women of different m ilitary eras. Data are derived from a national sample of women veterans who had at least one VA out-patient visit during a one year time period. Twent y percent of women veterans report having no one to depend on. Social suppo rt is lowest among Vietnam and Post-Vietnam era women. Chronic strains (suc h as having problems with relatives, housing, and paying hills) are importa nt factors which are associated with levels of perceived support. Factors r elated to loneliness/alone status appear to be associated with constraints in group activities and perceived support. This research illustrates the im portance of examining factors which constrain and enhance supportive activi ties and relationships.