The factorial structure, reliability and construct validity of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) were investigated in Turkey to check the generality of some of the previous findings from Western samples. Using samples consisting of normals and subjects with medical or mental health problems, the original three factors (subscales) were obtained. The internal consistencies of the MSPSS and its subscales were high. In general, the scales correlated significantly in the expected direction with measures of depression and anxiety, thus supporting the construct validity of the MSPSS. Among the samples, subjects with psychiatric/psychological problems perceived, in general, the least social support. This result further contributed to the construct validity of the scale.

The generality of support sources, with some differing definitions, was supported. The psychometric properties of the MSPSS were adequate for it to be used in Turkey. However, social support may be especially relevant for groups with psychological/medical problems, and support from close people (particularly the family) may be especially predictive of health.

Attitudes toward three types of disorders and a normal subject portrayed in vignettes were assessed among university students. The variables assessed were: perception of mental illness in the vignettes; desired social distance; emotional and physical burden expected; and expected negative influence on one's mental health from association with the type of persons portrayed in the vignettes. Analysis revealed that, in terms of variables assessed, the most "negative" ratings were recorded for the paranoid schizophrenic case and the most "positive" recorded for the normal subject. The simple schizophrenia and the anxiety neurosis/depression cases fell between the other two cases. Finally, with a few exceptions, all the variables assessed were significantly correlated with each other.

The influence of specific psychiatric labels and types of psychopathology on various attitudes were investigated in a sample (N = 84) of visitors of patients in a Turkish hospital. Vignettes representing two types of psychopathology with and without labels were used as the stimulus material and the attitudes toward those descriptions were assessed with the use of a questionnaire. Statistical analyses showed that labels had significant influence on recognition of mental illness, social distance, expected physical burden, and perception of treatment necessity. Type of psychopathology significantly influenced recognition of mental illness, social distance, expected physical burden, prognosis, and treatment choice. The results were discussed within the context of previous findings and the need for research pointed out.

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