Social networks as risk and protective factors for onset and recurrence of mental disorders

Recent research on the effects of social networks and social support resources on psychiatric disorder reflects two themes. The first focuses on the protective features of perceived social support. In this context, research shows that social support protects individuals from major depressive illness. The second theme emphasizes the idea that social networks are also sources of stressors that increase the risk of onset and recurrence of psychiatric disorders. Research on expressed emotion is prominent in this regard.