Which of the following is NOT a type of natural support?

The focus of the question is on the concept of natural supports, which refers to the informal sources of support that individuals can rely on in their communities and personal lives. Natural supports typically include relationships and connections with people who offer assistance, guidance, and emotional comfort without being part of a formal service system.

Friends, family, and neighbors are all considered natural supports because they represent interpersonal connections that contribute to an individual's social network and well-being. These relationships are based on personal choice and emotional bonds rather than structured or formal arrangements.

On the other hand, social service workers are classified as formal supports. They are part of a professional system that provides directed assistance and services aimed at addressing specific needs. This distinction highlights how social service workers operate within organizational frameworks, offering a level of support that is structured and often involves specific procedures and regulations.

Recognizing social service workers as formal rather than natural support helps clarify the different ways individuals can find assistance and community engagement. Understanding this distinction is vital for promoting the use of natural supports in recovery and wellness approaches, especially in peer support settings.