Network Analysis of Social Support and Anxiety Dimensions Among College Students

Abstract Background Previous research has suggested that transitioning from the level of impairment to the level of symptoms may provide a more nuanced understanding in psychopathology. This study aims to explore the relationships between the three dimensions of perceived social support (i.e., family support, friend support, and other support) and individual symptoms of anxiety among college students. Methods We conducted a network analysis of anxiety symptoms and perceived social support in a sample of 4105 college students. Two networks were constructed in this study, namely the Perceived Social Support-Anxiety network. Bridge centrality indices were calculated for variables within both networks. Results In this sample, perceived social support showed a significant association with anxiety symptoms. Bridge centrality analysis revealed that, in both networks, family support had negative bridge expected influence values, while friend support and other support had positive bridge expected influence values. Conclusions The results unveil specific roles of perceived social support in relation to anxiety at the symptom level.