Psychometric properties of the Subjective Well-Being Scale using the Rating Scale Model

Abstract

Abstract Positive Psychology has gained momentum in the international scenario, and one of its first constructs that has been studied in Brazil is subjective well-being. This study aims to verify the Escala de Bem-Estar Subjetivo (Subjective Well-Being Scale) Scale’s psychometric properties by independently applying the Item Response Theory’s rating scale model to each scale component. Evidence of validity was verified based on internal structure and reliability coefficients, which were assessed through internal consistency. In order to do so, a subject database consisting of 182 male and female college students aged between 18 and 57 years old was used (mean age of 24.6 years). Results showed evidence of unidimensionality of all three factors of the scale. In addition, only one of the factors’ response category did not have the expected results. Participants tended to choose mostly Positive Affect items, and negative affect had the lowest theta average. The implications of these findings to the instrument’s psychometric quality are thoroughly discussed.