This early research also documented the importance of reciprocity and bidirectional
exchanges; the now well-known gender differences in social networks; the importance of marriage,
sibling bonds, and intergenerational relations in later life; and the limited attention to non-kin supports (i.e.,
friends and neighbours). Further, this early body of research established the importance of social support,
operating in complex ways through both direct and indirect pathways, for the well-being of older adults. The
subjective perception of social support was identified as key for its benefits as experienced by older adults. To a
lesser extent, the recognition of potentially negative aspects of social interactions and the receipt of social
support were also studied.