Negative and Positive Support

This special issue reflects current conceptual and methodological examination of the impact of both negative and positive social support on well being in later life. Empirical work conducted over the past few decades has documented the beneficial impact of social support on elders' life quality using increasingly precise operational definitions. However, close relationships that provide comfort and physical assistance may also be a source of discord and tension. The studies presented in this issue provide current illustrations of how social support has been expanding and increasing in complexity to include both negative and positive aspects of both support and life quality.