Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS)

Description: A measure of the perceived availability of support.

Format: 12 items assessing 3 sources of support: family, friends, and significant other. Items are rated on a 7-point Likert-scale ranging from 1 (very strongly disagree) to 7 (very strongly agree).

Scoring: The MSPSS can be scored to measure perceived support from family, friends, and a significant other, or global perceived support.

Administration and Burden: Self-administered.

Psychometrics for SCI: Not available;

For non-SCI populations, internal consistencies of the subscales and total scale are excellent (Cronbach’s alphas= .85 to .91). In addition, the scales have demonstrated strong test-retest reliability over a 2- to 3-month interval (r= .72 to .85). Validity has been established through the negative association of scores on the MSPSS with scores on measures of depression [1].

Languages: English.

QoL Concept: The questionnaire measures social support, which corresponds to Boxes C (achievements) and E (subjective evaluations and reactions) of  Dijker’s Model.

Permissions/Where to Obtain: Public Domain; The MSPSS can be obtained from the IN-CAM Outcomes Database on this page: http://www.outcomesdatabase.org/node/666

**CLICK ON THE LISTED SECONDARY HEALTH CONDITIONS ON THE RIGHT TO READ HOW THE MSPSS HAS BEEN USED WITH A PARTICULAR CONDITION**

References:

1. Zimet GD, Dahlem NW, Zimet SG, Farley GK. The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. J Pers Assess. 1988;52:30–41.