XI Conference – European Congress of Methodology

Psychometric properties of Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support in Spanish university students

24 Jul 2025, 11:30

30m

Faculty of Social Sciences and Communication. (The Pyramid)/. - Foyer (Faculty of Social Sciences and Communication. (The Pyramid))

Poster Measurement Poster Session 3

Speakers

Júlia Gisbert-Pérez (Universitat de València) Elena Cejalvo (Universitat de València)Dr Manuel Martí-Vilar (Universitat de València) Laura Galiana (Universitat de València) Laura Badenes-Ribera (Universitat de València)

Abstract

Perceived social support (PSS) refers to the individual's perception of the availability and quality of emotional, instrumental, and social support that he/she can receive from his/her network of relationships. PSS is linked to physical and psychological well-being. The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) is one of the most used instruments to measure PSS. The MSPSS includes 12 items that measure three dimensions of PSS: support from family, peers, and other significant. This study aimed to analyze the psychometric properties of the MSPSS in Spanish university students. The sample included 795 university students (M = 21.5 years; SD = 5.01; 68% male). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and internal consistency were assessed. Results of CFA supported the factorial validity of the MSPSS including 1 general factor and 3 specific factors (χ2(51)111.139; TLI = .999, RMSEA = .039, CFI = .999, SRMR = .017). Cronbach's alpha and McDonald’s omega of the total scale were .88 and .85. Regarding subscales, Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega were family support (.92, .92), peer support (.92, .82), and other significant support (.97, .97), respectively. The MSPSS provides valid and reliable scores for measuring perceived social support in the Spanish university population.