Description

The Family Support Scale (FSS-18) is a psychometric tool designed to measure the perceived level of support provided by family members. It evaluates various aspects of family support, including emotional, instrumental, and informational support. The scale is often used to assess how effectively family members support each other in times of need and to identify areas where support might be improved.

Data Analysis and Usage

Data Collection: Participants complete the scale by responding to a series of items related to different dimensions of family support. Responses are typically rated on a Likert scale (e.g., from “strongly disagree” to “strongly agree”).
Data Processing: Scores for each item are aggregated to compute overall support scores and scores for specific types of support, such as emotional or instrumental. This involves calculating mean scores for individual items and subscales.
Data Interpretation: The data is analyzed to identify patterns and trends in perceived family support. This may involve comparing scores across different demographic groups or examining correlations between family support and other variables such as well-being or stress.
Application: The results can be used by researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to understand the role of family support in various contexts, such as mental health, academic performance, or overall life satisfaction. Findings can guide the development of interventions aimed at enhancing family support systems.

Objectives

The main objectives of the Family Support Scale (FSS-18) are:
Assessment of Support Levels: To evaluate the perceived levels of support that individuals receive from their family members, including emotional, practical, and informational support.
Identification of Needs: To identify gaps in family support and areas where individuals may need additional help or resources.
Improvement of Support Systems: To inform the development of programs and interventions that strengthen family support structures and improve overall family functioning.
Research and Evaluation: To provide data for research on the impact of family support on various outcomes, including mental health, academic success, and quality of life.

Calibration

Scoring: Each item on the scale is scored based on the participant’s responses. Scores are summed to provide an overall measure of family support and can be broken down into specific types of support if the scale includes subscales.
Statistical Analysis: The reliability and validity of the scale are assessed using statistical methods. This includes evaluating internal consistency (e.g., Cronbach’s alpha) and conducting factor analysis to ensure that the scale accurately measures the intended constructs.
Normative Data: Scores may be compared against normative data to interpret individual and group scores relative to a broader population. This helps in understanding how a particular group’s perceived support compares to general trends.

Bibliography

Sarason, I. G., Sarason, B. R., & Pierce, G. R. (1990). Social Support: An Interactional View. Wiley.
Thoits, P. A. (1995). Stress, coping, and social support processes: Where are we? What next?. Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 36(Spec No), 53-79.
Cutrona, C. E., & Russell, D. W. (1987). The provisions of social relationships and adaptation to stress. In W. H. Jones & D. W. Russell (Eds.), Basic Approaches to Social Support Research. Springer.
Heaney, C. A., & Israel, B. A. (2008). Social Networks and Social Support. In K. Glanz, B. K. Rimer, & K. Viswanath (Eds.), Health Behavior and Health Education: Theory, Research, and Practice. Jossey-Bass.