填空题 A. another B. weak C. illness D. problems E. self-respect
F. strong G. tendency H. solutions I. interpersonal J. happiness
K. in spite L. despite M. worries N. the other O. ties
Since we are social beings, the quality of our lives depends in large measure on our interpersonal relationships. One strength of the human condition is our 1 to give and receive support from one 2 under stressful circumstances. Social support consists of the exchange of resources among people based on their 3 ties. Those of us with strong support systems appear better able to cope with major life changes. People with 4 social ties live longer and have better health than those without such 5 . Studies over a range of illnesses, from depression to heart disease, reveal that the presence of social support helps people fend off 6 , and the absence of such support makes poor health more likely. Social support cushions stress in a number of ways. First, friends, relatives, and co-workers may let us know that they value us. Our 7 is strengthened when we feel accepted by others 8 our faults and difficulties. Second, other people often provide us with informational support. They help us to define and understand our problems and find 9 to them. Third, we typically find social companionship supportive. Engaging in leisure-time activities with others helps us to meet our social needs while at the same time distractingus from our 10 and troubles. Finally, other people may give us instrumental support—financial aid, material resources, and needed services—that reduces stress by helping us resolve and cope with our problems.