Social support is about having people to turn to in times of need, while social inclusion concerns the extent to which you can fully participate in society.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Social Support
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Definition: Social support refers to the perceived availability of help and assistance from others. It's the perception and reality that one is cared for, has assistance available from other people, and that one is part of a supportive social network.
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Focus: Providing emotional, informational, tangible (e.g., financial), and appraisal support to individuals. It centers on the help received or the perception of available help.
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Examples:
- Having a friend you can call when you're feeling down.
- Receiving financial assistance from family during a difficult time.
- Getting advice from a mentor about a career decision.
- Emotional support from a support group after a loss.
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Key Elements:
- Perceived support: The belief that support is available if needed.
- Received support: The actual help and resources one receives from others.
- Social network: The people and groups to whom an individual is connected.
Social Inclusion
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Definition: Social inclusion is the process of improving the terms on which individuals and groups take part in society—improving the ability, opportunity, and dignity of those disadvantaged based on their identity. It aims to empower all citizens to participate fully in economic, social, and political life.
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Focus: Removing barriers that prevent individuals from participating fully in society, ensuring equal opportunities, and promoting social justice. It focuses on access and participation.
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Examples:
- Ensuring people with disabilities have access to education and employment.
- Providing affordable housing to low-income families.
- Combating discrimination based on race, gender, or sexual orientation.
- Creating inclusive environments in schools and workplaces.
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Key Elements:
- Equity: Fair access to resources and opportunities.
- Participation: Active involvement in social, economic, and political activities.
- Empowerment: Increasing the ability of individuals to control their lives and influence decisions that affect them.
- Anti-discrimination: Eliminating prejudice and bias.
Key Differences Summarized in a Table:
| Feature | Social Support | Social Inclusion |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Assistance in times of need | Full participation in society |
| Core Concept | Having people to turn to | Breaking down barriers to enable participation |
| Examples | Emotional aid, financial help, advice | Accessible education, affordable housing, anti-discrimination policies |
| Goal | To provide comfort, assistance, and encouragement | To create an equitable and just society |
In essence, social support provides a safety net, while social inclusion aims to create a level playing field. They are interconnected, as greater social inclusion can lead to more robust social support networks, and vice-versa.
