Table of Contents
Interpersonal Support Evaluation List
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About Interpersonal Support Evaluation List
Scale Name
Interpersonal Support Evaluation List
Author Details
Cohen, S., and Hoberman, H.
Translation Availability
English, Urdu

Background/Description
The Interpersonal Support Evaluation List (ISEL) is a widely recognized tool designed to assess perceived social support across various domains. Developed by Sheldon Cohen and Hoberman in 1983, the ISEL measures an individual’s belief in the availability of resources and social support to cope with stressful situations. Social support is considered a crucial buffer against stress, with significant implications for mental and physical health.
The ISEL evaluates multiple dimensions of social support, including tangible support (practical assistance), appraisal support (emotional encouragement and validation), and belonging support (a sense of companionship). This comprehensive approach helps identify the strengths and gaps in a person’s support system. It is often used in research to study the relationship between social support, stress, and health outcomes, as well as in clinical settings to tailor interventions that strengthen social networks.
The ISEL is a valuable tool for psychologists, researchers, and healthcare providers aiming to understand the role of social support in managing life challenges and improving overall well-being.
Administration, Scoring and Interpretation
- Obtain an official copy of the Interpersonal Support Evaluation List and review the scoring instructions.
- Explain the purpose of the scale, emphasizing that it assesses the participant’s perception of available social support.
- Provide clear instructions on how to respond to the items, ensuring participants know that their answers should reflect their current experiences and perceptions.
- Inform participants about the estimated time for completion, usually around 15–20 minutes.
- Administer the scale in a quiet and comfortable environment to promote honest and thoughtful responses.
Reliability and Validity
The ISEL demonstrates strong psychometric properties. Its reliability is evidenced by high internal consistency, ensuring the scale consistently measures the perceived availability of social support. Test-retest reliability indicates stable results over time.
The scale’s validity has been supported through correlations with other measures of social support and mental health, confirming its effectiveness in assessing the perceived availability of resources and support. The ISEL has been validated across diverse populations and cultural settings, making it a versatile tool for both research and clinical purposes.
Available Versions
40-Items
12-Items
Reference
Cohen, S., & Hoberman, H. M. (1983). Positive events and social supports as buffers of life change stress 1. Journal of applied social psychology, 13(2), 99-125.
Important Link
Scale File:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Interpersonal Support Evaluation List measure?
It measures perceived social support across dimensions such as tangible support, appraisal support, and belonging support.
Who developed the ISEL?
The ISEL was developed by Sheldon Cohen and Hoberman in 1983.
How is the scale administered?
It is a self-report questionnaire completed in approximately 15–20 minutes.
What is the purpose of the ISEL?
It evaluates the perceived availability of social support and resources, helping identify gaps in a person’s support system.
Is the ISEL reliable and valid?
Yes, it has demonstrated strong reliability and validity across diverse populations and settings.
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