A Normative Study Assessing the Factorial Validity of the PERMA Profiler in Indian Emerging Adult Women

Abstract

Abstract Background: The PERMA Profiler is a 23-item questionnaire that measures five pillars of well-being as conceptualized by the PERMA Theory of Well-being. PERMA stands for Positive emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment. Aims and Objectives: The present study observed the normative information and assessed the factorial validity and reliability of the PERMA Profiler among emerging adult women (aged between 17 and 23) from different states in South India. Materials and Methods: A total of 309 participants completed the PERMA Profiler. We used Shapiro-Wilk’s test to assess normality, descriptive statistics to establish normative data, and t-test and ANOVA to measure the impact of demographic variables on well-being. Internal consistency was examined using Cronbach’s alpha and factor structure was tested using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). Convergent and discriminant validity of the scale was also assessed. Results: Findings showed that age could influence the relationship factor of the PERMA Profiler. Normative data indicated that women in India are lower in PERMA factors, happiness, and well-being compared to the Western, European, Asian, and African countries. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the PERMA Profiler fits the five-factor correlational and hierarchical models. The PERMA factors failed to show adequate discriminant validity. Only meaning showed acceptable convergent validity. Conclusion: The study provided reasonably comprehensive normative information on the PERMA Profiler for emerging adult women from India. It can be recommended as a valid tool that gives greater weight to well-being as an underlying construct rather than the factors.