Adaptation of the multidimensional scale of perceived social support in a Ugandan setting
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Date
2009
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
African health sciences
Abstract
The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) was developed in the USA. The adequacy of its use
in Uganda to guarantee its reliability and validity has not been ascertained.
Aim: Thus the aim of the present study was to adapt the MSPSS scale by testing the validity and reliability of the scale in a Ugandan
setting.
Methods: A cross-sectional design was employed and 240 respondents were consecutively recruited from postnatal clinics in Mulago
hospital. Analysis of reliability and validity of the adapted MSPSS was done. Cronbach alpha and principal component analyses were
respectively generated.
Results: Three subscales of the MSPSS that had been identified in other populations were evident in the Ugandan population. Using
the Cronbach’s alpha, the MSPSS demonstrated good internal consistency at .83. A dendrogram indicated that all sub items of the
MSPSS were inter-linked. Exploratory Factor analysis derived three components. Principal Component analysis using rotated
varimax generated high loadings on all subscales.
Conclusion: The adapted MSPSS can reliably be used in Uganda.
Description
Keywords
Multidimensional Scale of Perceived social support (MSPSS), Adaptation, Validity, Reliability, Social support
Citation
Nakigudde, J., Musisi, S., Ehnvall, A., Airaksinen, E., & Agren, H. (2009). Adaptation of the multidimensional scale of perceived social support in a Ugandan setting. African health sciences, 9(2).