Psychometric properties of the multidimensional scale of perceived social support among university of Ibadan medical students

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) is widely used to measure perceived social support. Despite its extensive application, the scale's psychometric properties have not been tested among Nigerian medical students, who face high levels of psychological distress. This study aims to evaluate the reliability, validity and factor structure of the MSPSS among medical students at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. METHOD: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 355 preclinical and clinical medical students from the University of Ibadan. Data were collected through an online questionnaire utilising the MSPSS, which includes three subscales: family, friends, and significant other. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha, and construct validity was evaluated through factor analysis. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to assess model fit. RESULTS: The MSPSS demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.927), with subscale reliability for family (α = 0.892), friends (α = 0.927), and significant other (α = 0.927). Factor analysis confirmed a three-factor structure consistent with the original MSPSS, explaining 80.3% of the variance. CFA showed strong model fit indices (CFI = 0.976, TLI = 0.966, RMSEA = 0.071). CONCLUSION: The MSPSS is a reliable and valid tool for assessing perceived social support among Nigerian medical students. The findings highlight the scale's applicability for identifying students at risk and guiding necessary interventions in medical education. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not Applicable.