Social Support

Much like tech support, Social Support is a range of services only usable through a network of peers, providing assistance with technology products such as equipment,software, computers, or other electronic or mechanical goods. In general, social support services attempt to help the user solve specific problems with a product which another member of the network is familiar with—rather than having to rely on manufacturers to provide training, customization, or other support services. Social support, much like peer support occurs when members of a social network provide knowledge, experience, guidance, helpful or practical help to one other. It commonly refers to an initiative consisting of trained and/or experienced supporters, and can take a number of forms such as mentors, listening, tutorials or counseling. Social support is also used to refer to initiatives where colleagues, members of self help organizations and others meet as equals to give each other support on a reciprocal basis. "Social" in this case is taken to imply that each person has no more expertise as a supporter than the other and the relationship is one of equality.