Adaptation and Preliminary Validation of a Positive Psychology Assessment Tool: Character Strengths Semantic Differential Scale. (July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kaya, Cahit
• Is Part Of: Journal of psychoeducational assessment. Volume 40:Number 4(2022)
• Page Start: 451
• Page End: 464
• Publication Date: 2022-07
• Subjects: character strengths -- validity -- reliability -- life satisfaction; Ability -- Testing -- Periodicals; Educational tests and measurements -- Periodicals; 371.713
• DOI: 10.1177/07342829211070404
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0734-2829

Abstract

Character strengths are a protective factor against psychological symptoms. However, there is a lack of research that has investigated the psychometric properties of abbreviated character strengths scales. The purpose of this study was to adapt and validate the Character Strengths Semantic Differential Scale (CS-SDS) with a sample of 235 college students. Using the back-translation method, the CS-SDS was translated from English into Turkish and then adapted. Next, exploratory factor analysis was conducted to determine the factorial structure of the Turkish version of CS-SDS (T-CS-SDS). The results indicated that the T-CS-SDS had a four-factor structure, namely, leadership, humanity, wisdom, and vitality. Significant moderate correlations were found for the character strengths factors with perceived stress, depression, and life satisfaction. Cronbach's alpha coefficients for the factors were above .70. This is the first study that supported the use of the T-CS-SDS as a positive psychology assessment tool to design and implement innovative interventions to increase the well-being of college students.