Psychometric Evaluation of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support in Lower Extremity Amputation

Validity and Reliability of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support in Individuals With Lower Extremity Amputation

The purpose of this study is to examine the validity and reliability of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support in individuals with lower extremity amputation. Social support plays an important role in psychological well-being, social participation, and adaptation after amputation. However, there is limited evidence regarding whether this scale accurately and consistently measures perceived social support in individuals with lower limb amputation.

Participants aged 18 years and older with lower extremity amputation will be invited to complete several questionnaires, including the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. Some participants will complete the social support questionnaire a second time within a short period to evaluate the consistency of the results. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the accurate assessment of perceived social support in individuals with lower limb amputation and to support future clinical and research applications.

This methodological study aims to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support in individuals with lower extremity amputation. Perceived social support is a key psychosocial factor influencing psychological adjustment, social participation, and quality of life following amputation. Although the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support has been validated in various populations, its psychometric properties have not been sufficiently examined in individuals with lower limb amputation.

Individuals aged 18 years and older with lower extremity amputation will be recruited from routine clinical follow-up visits. Participants will complete a sociodemographic data form and standardized questionnaires assessing perceived social support, psychosocial adjustment, participation, and health-related quality of life. To assess test-retest reliability, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support will be re-administered to a subgroup of participants within a 3 to 7-day interval.

Reliability will be evaluated using internal consistency and test-retest reliability analyses. Construct validity will be examined through correlations between perceived social support scores and related psychosocial and health measures. The results of this study will provide evidence regarding the psychometric adequacy of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support for use in individuals with lower extremity amputation and will support its application in both clinical practice and research settings.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Individuals aged 18 years and older.
• Individuals with unilateral or bilateral lower extremity amputation.
• Ability to read and understand Turkish.
• Ability to provide informed consent and complete self-reported questionnaires.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of severe cognitive impairment or neurological disorders that may affect comprehension of the questionnaires.
• Presence of acute psychiatric conditions that may interfere with participation.
• Presence of additional medical conditions that significantly limit communication or cooperation.