The influence of cultural background on students feelings about and use of social support

This exploratory study addresses the little researched topic of cross-cultural differences in college students' use of social support. Israeli and Chinese students rated the importance and availability of various support functions and noted whom they turn to when faced with different problems. Findings show that while both Israelis and Chinese students view the various functions of social support as important, they utilize support differently. They almost never turn to a counsellor. Implications for student counselling are discussed.