Validation of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support on Nigerian Female Undergraduates
Ibukunoluwa B. Bello *
Department of Behavioural Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria.
E. Olutope Akinnawo
Department of Pure and Applied Psychology, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria.
Bede C. Akpunne
Department of Behavioural Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria.
Deborah F. Onisile
Department of Behavioural Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Social support is a vital factor in promoting physical and psychological well-being. The cross-sectional survey research design was adopted to validate the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support on Nigerian Female Undergraduates using a sample of 454 Nigerian female undergraduates. Participants responded to the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and Interpersonal Support Evaluation List (shortened version -12 item). The item-total statistics of the scale indicates that all items present good discrimination. Also, the scale's internal consistency among the Nigerian sample reveals positively significant reliability coefficients. Paired with ISEL-Short Form, MSPSS has good concurrent validity. The authors conclude that MSPSS has appropriate psychometric properties for assessing social support in Nigeria and similar cultural contexts.
Keywords: Validation, social support, female undergraduates, Nigeria