This review sets out to consider selected literature in relation to End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) populations, specifically focusing on hemodialysis patients. The relationship between social support and outcome, with special consideration given to compliance, is outlined, and a theoretical model of support discussed. Compliance within hemodialysis populations is considered in detail and associated methodological problems highlighted. Studies evaluating the stress-buffering model of social support in relation to stress and compliance are outlined and implications for future research briefly highlighted.