Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS)
Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) used in psychology are essential tools for clinical and research assessments. This post is based on dissertations submitted by students during their academic programs. At ‘Mental Health,’ we arrange and provide these resources to you. Here is the complete list of resources (Click Here). To access these materials, click on the ‘Avail File’ section below.”
About Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS)
Purpose of the Tool
The MSPSS is designed to assess the perceived social support from three distinct sources: family, friends, and significant others. The primary purpose of this tool is to understand how individuals perceive the availability and adequacy of support from their social networks, which can be a vital factor in mental health, especially in cases of anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders.
Overview
The MSPSS was developed by Zimet, Dahlem, Zimet, and Farley in 1988 to provide a brief and reliable measure of perceived social support. It has since become a staple in psychological assessments, particularly in studies related to social and emotional well-being.
The MSPSS is a 12-item self-report scale that asks respondents to rate their level of agreement with statements regarding the support they perceive from their family, friends, and significant others. Each item is rated on a 7-point Likert scale, ranging from “Very Strongly Disagree” to “Very Strongly Agree.”
The scale is divided into three subscales, each consisting of four items:
- Family Subscale: Measures perceived support from family members.
- Friends Subscale: Assesses perceived support from friends.
- Significant Other Subscale: Evaluates perceived support from a significant other, which could be a partner, spouse, or close companion.
Psychometric Properties
The MSPSS is known for its strong psychometric properties. It has demonstrated high internal consistency, with Cronbach’s alpha values typically exceeding 0.80 for each subscale. The tool has been validated across various populations, including adolescents, adults, and older adults, and in different cultural contexts, making it a robust and versatile measure.
Age Group
The MSPSS is suitable for a wide range of age groups, from adolescents to older adults. It is particularly effective in populations where social support is a critical factor in mental health, such as students, patients with chronic illnesses, and individuals undergoing significant life changes.
Administration Steps
- Explain the Purpose: Briefly explain to the respondent that the MSPSS is designed to assess their perceived social support.
- Provide the Scale: Present the 12 items, ensuring that the respondent understands the 7-point Likert scale.
- Ensure Confidentiality: Assure the respondent that their responses will remain confidential.
- Collect Responses: Allow the respondent to complete the scale at their own pace.
- Score the Responses: Calculate the total score for each subscale and interpret the results based on normative data.
Zimet, G.D., Dahlem, N.W., Zimet, S.G., & Farley, G.K. (1988). The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. Journal of Personality Assessment, 52(1), 30-41.
Canty-Mitchell, J., & Zimet, G.D. (2000). Psychometric properties of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support in urban adolescents. American Journal of Community Psychology, 28(3), 391-400.
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