What distinguishes formal support from informal support?

Formal support is characterized by its structured and professional nature, often provided by organizations or institutions that have specific protocols and guidelines in place. One of the key distinctions that differentiates formal support from informal support is the cost associated with the service. Formal support usually involves a fee or payment for services rendered, which can include anything from therapy sessions to childcare services.

In contrast, informal support is typically provided by family members, friends, or community members without a cost. This type of support is often spontaneous and lacks the formality of structured services, focusing instead on personal relationships and social networks. Options focusing on the relationship between the provider and receiver or the availability of the service do not capture the financial aspect that distinctly characterizes formal support, while the type of service provided can vary widely within both formal and informal contexts without defining their primary differences.