Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support

Abstract: The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) test is a 12-item measure developed by Zimet, Dahlem, Zimet, and Farley (1988) designed to measure perceptions of support from three sources: family, friends, and a significant other. It identifies how easy or hard it is for the respondent to seek help and support from these three sources. Across many studies, the MSPSS has been shown to have good internal and test-retest reliability, good validity, and a fairly stable factorial structure.

Who Completed this Measure?: Target Child/Youth (now in adulthood)

Cohort 1 - Administrative History

  • Year 28 | age 33-34

Cohort 2 - Administrative History

  • Year 28 | age 33-34

Cohort 3 - Administrative History

  • Year 28 | age 33-34

Technical Reports:

Raw Dataset Name: c28fj

Scored Dataset Name: mps28

Is this Measure Available for Public Use?: Yes

Measure Items and Scales:

c28fj01 MPS: There is a special person who is around when I am in need.
c28fj02 MPS: There is a special person with whom I can share my joys and sorrows.
c28fj03 MPS: My family really tries to help me.
c28fj04 MPS: I get the emotional help and support I need from my family.
c28fj05 MPS: I have a special person who is a real source of comfort to me.
c28fj06 MPS: My friends really try to help me.
c28fj07 MPS: I can count on my friends when things go wrong.
c28fj08 MPS: I can talk about my problems with my family.
c28fj09 MPS: I have friends with whom I can share my joys and sorrows.
c28fj10 MPS: There is a special person in my life who cares about my feelings.
c28fj11 MPS: My family is willing to help me make decisions.
c28fj12 MPS: I can talk about my problems with my friends.
Scales Items Description
mps28fam c28fj03, 04, 08, 11 MPS28 Perceived Support from Family Mean Subscale
mps28fri c28fj06, 07, 08, 12 MPS28 Perceived Support from Friends Mean Subscale
mps28sgn c28fj01, 02, 05, 10 MPS28 Perceived Support from Significant Other Mean Subscale
mps28tot c28fj01-12 MPS28 Perceived Social Support Total Mean Scale