The Power of Feeling Supported

Abstract

This thesis explores the role of perceived support in the well-being of young adults living in assisted living facilities in the Netherlands. While traditional social support models have primarily focused on received support such as emotional, informational, tangible, and esteem-based assistance, recent literature suggests that perceived support may have a stronger and more consistent impact on mental well-being. Drawing on a qualitative methodology, this study conducted semi-structured interviews with eighteen participants, including both residents and care professionals, to investigate how support is experienced and perceived. The findings confirm two main expectations. First, residents differ in how they experience the same types of received support, which suggests that support effectiveness is dependent on context. Second, perceived support emerged as a possible predictor of psychological well-being: participants who believed that someone was available to support their needs, often reported resilience, emotional safety, and social connectedness. The presence of peer support workers (experts with experience) was seen as validating, offering both role modelling and hope. The study recommends further integration of peer support workers and emphasizes the need for future research on underrepresented populations. Overall, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of how perceived support adds to the improved well-being of vulnerable populations.