Psychometric Properties of Various Scales Measuring Psychological Well-Being in a South African Context: The FORT 1 Project

Abstract

The aim of this study was to do a first phase screening of psychometric properties of various scales measuring facets of psychological well-being so as to address further questions in the FORT 1 project (FORT 1 = Clarifying the nature of psychological strengths). All scales (except one) were developed in a Western context, and measure facets of cognitive, affective, conative, social, and spiritual psychological well-being. As it could not be assumed that scales are valid in South African contexts, a broad screening of their psychometric properties was necessary before specific questions could be adressed. A convenience sample (N=514) including white (n=384) and black (n=130) students and adults from the North West Province and Gauteng areas completed all questionnaires. Psychometric properties of scales varied from acceptable to unacceptable for use in a specific subgroup.