Abstract:

In this study, the relationship between the level of perceived social support and the level of altruism in university students was examined. Moreover, the study also investigated whether the total and subscale scores of perceived social support differ according to gender and whether the total and subscale scores of altruism differ according to gender and status of taking part in social responsibility projects. The correlational screening model was used in the research. The study group consisted of a total of 593 university students: 385 female and 208 male. A Personal Information Form, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, and the Altruism Scale were used for data collection. The analysis was performed in the SPSS 25.0 package program. As a result of the research, a weak, positive correlation was determined between university students’ level of perceived social support and their level of altruism. There was no significant difference in university students’ total and subscale scores of perceived social support in terms of gender whereas there was a significant difference in total and subscale scores of altruism. It was determined that university students’ total and subscale scores of altruism differed significantly according to the status of taking part in social responsibility projects. As a result of multiple linear regression analysis, it was concluded that family support, friend support, and specific support were significant predictors of altruism.

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