What’s your support language?

Like the love language, the language of social support varies from person to person. It may range from giving physical comfort to being always emotionally available in need to sharing the knowledge one possesses. There are many. Some are noted down as follows. Read the following and identify how do you support your friends and what kind of supportive behaviors do you receive actually?

Types of supportive behaviours

Instrumental

• Service entails taking up tasks for others and actively assisting them in managing problems.

• For example, a spouse decides to work from home and assist with babysitting after his wife undergoes surgery.

Informational

• Includes giving guidance, advice, and sharing information to help individuals choose effective next steps that may work well.

• For example, a counsellor educates his counselee regarding healthy coping methods for dealing with uncomfortable emotions and situations.

Emotional

• Includes providing physical or emotional comfort such as hugs or pats on the back, as well as listening and empathizing, showing concern and having understanding during times of difficulty. This helps a person develop the feelings of being loved, valued, and cared by others.

• Example, a friend listening to another friend's experience without any judgement.

Appraisal

• Involves sharing information to evaluate one's own conduct, talents, or decisions. It encompasses constructive criticism, appreciation, and validation of one's feelings and experiences.

• For example, a mentor offers positive criticism on a student's presentation skills and suggests the areas for improvement.

Companionship

• It refers to fostering a sense of belonging and companionship by just being there for someone or indulging in activities together.

• For example, one spending valuable time playing video games with his sibling while reminiscing the childhood memories.

Self-esteem

• It involves showing expressions of confidence and encouragement to the person in problem, providing him or her the courage and faith that he or she will be able to overcome the problem.

• Example, one expresses admiration for the genuine efforts and honesty her friend has put in her work.