By totalling the networks on which respondents would rely in times of need, it is possible to identify a summary measure that helps to define the scope and strength of the support network available to the population. This gives rise to three categories.
The first group consists of those with ‘strong social networks’, accounting for just over half of those surveyed (52.1 per cent). This group is made up, in particular, of men, people living in the Centre-North, and those in senior professional roles (entrepreneurs and executives). Above all, the strength of these networks is closely linked to two factors: age and educational attainment. As people get older, their perception of being able to rely on others decreases. However, as educational attainment rises, the likelihood of having more extensive networks of relationships increases proportionally. Therefore, a high level of educational attainment, high professional qualifications and living in favourable economic circumstances are positive factors for building more extensive support networks in times of need.
The second group consists of those with ‘weak networks’ (33.8 per cent). These are not people without any networks at all, but those who struggle to find potential sources of support outside their family and circle of friends. In this case, this profile is particularly prevalent amongst women, the elderly (over 65), those on the margins of society (the unemployed) and those outside the labour market (housewives). It is a group that could be described as borderline, that is, those who, unless specific traumatic events occur, are able to cope on their own when necessary, thanks to their family network. However, should a particularly problematic situation arise, they would find themselves unable to obtain the necessary support.
The third group constitutes a minority, though by no means a marginal one: those who are ‘without support networks’ (14.1 per cent). This group includes those who have no support networks at all, or very few, to fall back on in times of need. Even their family networks appear weak. This group is particularly characterised by those aged over 55, those in marginal positions in the labour market (manual workers and the unemployed) and those who are no longer in work (pensioners), as well as those with a low level of educational attainment. Above all, however, it includes those living in Southern Italy. In this case, the geographical dimension is a decisive factor and points to problems that the economic crisis has made even more acute, particularly in areas where social capital is less developed.
