A MEASURE FOR PERCEIVED SOCIAL SUPPORT AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS: IMPLICATION FOR CAMPUS LEADERS

Abstract

Social support is an important aspect of university students’ life. Individuals who enjoy their social relationships and feel strongly supported by others reported less anxiety, depression, and psychological stress. Social support may come from family members, friends, and significant others in life. The lack of social support may lead to stress and depression which may turn to more serious mental problems like suicidal ideation, personality disorder, or other symptoms of mental disorder. Therefore, the role of university management or leaders in providing social support for students is critical for building a healthy and inclusive learning environment. However, limited knowledge of the sources of social support among students can pose barriers to implementing comprehensive social support programs. To assess the perceived social support among university students, a Western scale, the Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale can be utilized. This study was intended to examine the validity and reliability of the Malay version of the
Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale in a sample of 443 Malaysian university students. Results support for high reliability and validity of this scale. Confirmatory factor analysis reported the expected three-factor structure and a high correlation between factors and scales. In addition, internal consistency was good and correlation analysis with the Satisfaction with Life Scale proved the
theoretical relations among the constructs. The findings suggest that MPSS-M is a reliable and valid tool to measure social support among students in higher education institutions. Campus leaders and student affairs professionals may use the scale to identify the source of support among students. Implication for university management is also discussed.