Sources of Social Support Among International College Students in the United States

International students are challenged due to the abrupt change in social
support. The purpose of this study was to operationalize different sources of
social support and evaluate determinants of mental health among
international students (n=328). An instrument was developed to measure four
distinct sources of social support. Repeated measures ANOVA were used to
evaluate statistical differences. Results found significant mean differences
between each type of social support with social support from: family/friends
currently living in their home country highest and friends/families living and
born in the U.S. lowest. These findings provide evidence on the applicability
of this new instrument. The depth in which social support is defined in this
study can reflect the greater context in future research findings.