AAMC FL Practice Exam

How does social network analysis differ from social support analysis?

1. It focuses on community resources rather than individual interactions

2. It maps interactions versus evaluating emotional support

3. It assesses structural organization instead of personal relationships

4. It emphasizes cultural norms over interpersonal relationships

The correct answer is: It maps interactions versus evaluating emotional support

Social network analysis is primarily concerned with the mapping and understanding of relationships and interactions among individuals within a network. It investigates the patterns of connections and how they influence behavior, communication, and resources flow among participants. This approach emphasizes the quantitative aspects of these interactions—how often individuals connect, the strength of these connections, and the overall structure of the network itself. In contrast, social support analysis focuses specifically on the emotional and practical assistance individuals provide to one another. This type of analysis prioritizes evaluating the quality and type of support received by individuals rather than just the frequency or presence of interactions within the network. By focusing on emotional support, social support analysis aims to assess how these relationships can impact an individual's well-being and resilience during challenges. The correct response highlights this distinction by emphasizing the difference in focus on mapping interactions rather than evaluating the emotional need for support, aligning with how social networks are operationalized compared to the more qualitative analysis of support systems.