+The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support

Zimet, Dahlem, Zimet, & Farley (1988)

Topic: Social Support - General Social Support Skills

Description of Measure: 

The MSPSS was constructed with 12 items addressing relationships with family, friends, and a significant other in the following areas: social popularity, respect, and items directly related to perceived social support. 

Response options: 

Each item was rated on a 7-point Likert scale ranging from very strongly disagree (1) to very strongly agree (7).

Items:

  1. There is a special person who is around when I am needed.
  2. There is a special person with whom I can share my joys and sorrows.
  3. My family really tries to help me.
  4. I get the emotional help and support I need from my family.
  5. I have a special person who is a real source of comfort to me.
  6. My friends really try to help me.
  7. I can count on my friends when things go wrong.
  8. I can talk about my problems with my family.
  9. I have friends with whom I can share my joys and sorrows.
  10. There is a special person in my life who cares about my feelings.
  11. My family is willing to help me make decisions.
  12. I can talk about my problems with my friends.

Citation:

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, https://doi.org/10.1207/s15327752jpa5201_2 Links to an external site.

Link to PDF: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1207/s15327752jpa5201_2?needAccess=true Links to an external site.

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