Social support

Social science research has demonstrated the importance of social support provided by family, friends, family, co-workers or activity partners to be physically and psychologically healthy. The creation and care of a network of close friends is essential for gay men of all ages because, often silent since adolescence on their true feelings and emotions in their families and work, they are confronted with great periods of loneliness throughout their lives.

As we can see, it is most often friends that gay men count on for social support. Family does not play a particularly more significant role than anyone else in their lives.

Gay men say they are more satisfied with their social support than the general population in France. This shows very accurately how strong those friendship networks are, which unlike family exist by choice.