Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support

The MSPSS is a 12-item self-report scale measuring perceived adequacy of social support from three key sources: family, friends, and significant other. Developed by Zimet and colleagues in 1988, the MSPSS assesses the subjective sense that one has available emotional and instrumental support—a critical protective factor against trauma-related psychopathology and a key component of resilience. The scale is widely used in trauma, mental health, and medical research to evaluate social support as both an outcome and a moderator of symptom severity.