| dc.description.abstract | Social networks have been described extensively as a very basic factor in our lives. We know their importance for health, longevity and quality of life (Cohen & Wills, 1985; Berkman, Glass, Brisette, & Seeman, 2000), which is even more necessary for patients with chronic disease (Sorensen, 1994; Goodenow, Reisine, & Grady, 1990; Cohen & Wills, 1985; Fyrand, Wichstrom, Moum, Glennas, & Kvien, 1997). However, chronic disease is often associated with a decrease in both quantity (network size) and quality (social support) of social networks (Wortman & Conway, 1985). This process of network deterioration contributes to a more demanding life situation for people with chronic diseases, owing to diminished resources for coping with disease-related challenges (Schulz & Rau, 1985; Wortman & Conway, 1985). Schultz and Rau (1985) have coined the term “double jeopardy” to describe the chronic patient’s “situation where the joint effects of two variables doubly disadvantages one in terms of access to societal rewards”. “Social disability” is another term describing possible negative social consequences of having a chronic disease (Doeglas, Suurmeijer, Krol, Sanderman, van Rijswijk, & van Leeuwen, 1994). | nb_NO |
