Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the Structure of the Social Support Scale (MOSS - SSS)

Abstract

The research question was to examine the factor structure of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MOSS - SSS). This scale was constructed to provide a brief, multidimensional self-assessment instrument for social support. Social support is defined as the interaction between individuals that aims to exchange resources that enable feelings of control over a situation, competence, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging. Additionally, social support represents a resource whose contribution is crucial for positive coping with stressors and psychophysical well-being. The goal of this study was to investigate whether the assumed four-factor model, confirmed in previous studies, that explored the factor structure of the MOSS - SSS scale, fits the model obtained in a sample of 397 participants from the general population of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess the model's adequacy. The results showed that all fit indices (X2/df = 4 RMSEA = 0.087, CFI = .925, NFI = .902, TLI = .912) were within the recommended criteria. Additionally, the Cronbach's α coefficient was .94, indicating good scale reliability. Based on the fit index values, it is possible to conclude that the four-factor model of MOSS - SSS corresponds to the theoretically assumed four-factor structure.