Perceived Social Support and Mental Health: Cultural Orientations as Moderators

Abstract

This study investigated unique and shared effects of social support and cultural orientation on mental health indicators (depressive and anxiety symptoms, stress, and life satisfaction) of 896 college students. Results indicated that perceived social support predicted mental health variables and that cultural orientation variables (independent and interdependent self-construal) moderated this association. Conclusions and counseling implications for university counselors are discussed on the basis of cultural orientation theory.