Perceived Social Support and Working Models of Self and Actual Others

Investigated linkages between perceived social support and (a) perceptions of self and others, and (b) others' perceptions of the self. In Study 1, undergraduates (56 men and 74 women) completed questionnaires assessing perceptions of themselves and typical others. Perceptions of support were positively related to perceptions of others. In Study 2, undergraduates (76 men and 134 women) completed questionnaires assessing self-perceptions and parents' and friends' perceptions of them. A subset of parents and friends completed questionnaires assessing their perceptions of the subject. Perceptions of social support were positively related to self-perceptions and beliefs about others' views, and also to parents' and friends' actual views. Theoretical implications are discussed in terms of the role of personality and personal relationships in perceived social support.