Emotional support refers to the presence of individuals who provide comfort, care, and empathy during challenging times. It encompasses the reassurance that one is not alone, whether through someone listening attentively to express frustrations or offering thoughtful guidance. This form of support can originate from various sources, including friends, colleagues, and family members, collectively forming an emotional support network. Such support is crucial for individuals seeking understanding and assistance in managing their intense emotions.

However, research published in Psychology & Aging indicates that as men grow older, their emotional support networks tend to diminish. The study found a 50 percent reduction in these networks from the age of 30 to 90.

Low emotional support

The findings revealed a steady decline in emotional support networks throughout adulthood for men. At the age of 30, men typically have two individuals they can rely on for comfort and advice. By the time they reach 90, this number drops to just one. This significant decrease underscores a prevalent trend where older individuals increasingly depend less on others for emotional support.

Additionally, the study examined how life events, such as marriage and retirement, influence the size of emotional support networks. For example, upon getting married, individuals often experience a contraction in their support networks, as they tend to depend more heavily on their spouse for emotional needs.

Early life experience

Early life experiences, particularly those from childhood, significantly influence the development of emotional support networks in adulthood. The research indicated that men raised in nurturing and affectionate family settings, characterized by supportive parental relationships, tended to establish more extensive emotional support networks as adults. Interestingly, factors such as parental income and educational attainment did not appear to affect the size of these emotional networks. Observing family members who provide emotional support to one another helps individuals cultivate a healthy understanding of emotions, making them more inclined to express these feelings within their own emotional networks.

Thus, the findings suggest that familial interactions play a crucial role in shaping how individuals connect with and depend on others throughout their lives.

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