Transcultural adaptation and validation of the Korean version of the Types of Positive Affect Scale (TPAS): Application of the item response model

Abstract

Abstract Background Affect is a crucial factor that influences both mental health and quality of life. The Types of Positive Affect Scale (TPAS) is an instrument for measuring positive affect. It is commonly used in studies of mindfulness, stress, quality of life, and self-compassion. This study translated the TPAS into Korean and validated it. Methods International Testing Commission (ITC) standards were followed during the translation procedure. The participants answered sociodemographic questions and completed the translated version of the TPAS, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS). Data were collected from 352 healthy Korean adults. Item responses analysis with rating scale model, confirmatory factor analysis, and correlation analysis were used for validation. Result Cronbach’s alpha was high for all measures (TPAS = .94, PANAS = .86, BDI = .92). A one-factor model for the TPAS showed a poor fit, a two-factor model showed a good fit, and a bifactor model showed the best fit (CFI = 0.94, TLI = 0.93, RMSEA = 0.081 [range: 0.072–0.09]). Item response analysis showed acceptable fits for all items except items 4 (infit = 1.51) and 7 (infit = 1.76). Conclusions The Korean version of the TPAS is suitable for use in the Korean cultural context. However, items 4 and 7 should be omitted or interpreted with caution.