The factor structure of the Medical Outcomes Study-Social Support Survey: A comparison of different models in a sample of recently diagnosed cancer patients

Abstract

Objective: To analyse the factor structure and psychometric properties of the original and abbreviated versions of the Medical Outcomes Study-Social Support Survey (MOS-SSS) in recently-diagnosed cancer patients.

Method: A sample of 128 newly-diagnosed cancer patients were assessed with the Spanish versions of the MOS-SSS and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to analyse six different factor structures. Internal consistency and convergent validity indexes were calculated. The models tested included all of the following: 1) the original five-factor model (comprised of the following dimensions: emotional, informational, and tangible support, positive social interaction, and affection); 2) a four-factor empirical solution; 3 & 4) two different three-factor structures obtained in studies conducted in cancer patients; and 5 & 6) a two-factor solution for the abbreviated 8-item form and a one-factor solution for the 6-item form.

Results: The original five-factor structure showed a better fit index than the three and four factor models. Both the 6- and 8-item versions showed excellent goodness-of-fit, with adequate internal consistency and convergent validity indexes.

Conclusion: The MOS-SSS is a powerful, highly flexible instrument to assess social support in cancer patients. The full 19-item scale allows for a comprehensive assessment of the essential dimensions of social support, while the abbreviated versions permit a quick assessment that minimizes the burden on patients.

Keywords: Cancer; Confirmatory factor analysis; Medical Outcomes Study – Social Support Survey; Psychological distress; Psychometrics; Social support.