Some aspects of a theory of community mental health.

A theoretical position is developed relating the likelihood of an individual's becoming disabled to his pattern of interaction in the community. It is postulated that a system of reciprocation exists among the people with whom an individual interacts. This reciprocation may provide emotional support and services in times of stress, thus helping the individual to ward off disability. Characteristics of networks within which such reciprocation systems may exist, and some measurement problems, are discussed.