Abstract
A new instrument was designed for measuring social support networks of Japanese university students. First, twelve persons thought to be important support network members for students were identified (for example, father, mother, a close friend, etc.). And then, these twelve members were rated according to twelve s ocial support items. Ninety-six students (males= 42, females = 54) completed the ques tionnaire and a factor analysis was conducted. Four factors were obtained a nd were named as follows pshychological support, instrumental support, problem-solving oriented support and fun / relaxation support. Factor scores of the twelve persons were calculated for each subject and the feature of social support network of each subject was clarified. Through the use of such instrument, social support networks of students could be idiographically understood.
