The Development and Validation of the Self-Validation and Invalidation Scale (SVIS)
Abstract
Researchers theorize that self-invalidation contributes to the pathogenesis and maintenance of psychopathology, whereas self-validation promotes psychological wellbeing. Yet, psychometrically sound assessment tools for these processes are lacking. The current investigation aimed to develop and validate a self-report measure of self-validation and invalidation via two studies with online samples (i.e.., the Self-Validation and Invalidation Scale [SVIS]). In Study 1 (N = 424), a bifactor solution yielded an acceptable fit to the data. The SVIS (30 items) evidenced excellent internal consistency, and support for convergent, concurrent, and incremental validity, yet mixed results for divergent validity in Study 1. Based on results from Study 2 (N = 499) the SVIS was refined to 16 items. A bifactor solution evidenced acceptable to good fit to the data, excellent test-retest reliability, good internal consistency, and support for convergent, concurrent, divergent, incremental, and discriminant validity. The SVIS-16 shows promise in tapping self-validation/invalidation.