Development and Validation of the Character Strengths Scale for Children

Description

Page: 01-09

Aasa T. and Annalakshmi N. (Department of Psychology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu)

Strength-based models involve identifying strengths to enhance individuals’ life satisfaction and well-being; in addition, they play an important role in improving psychological resilience, which leads to a decrease in negative outcomes due to psychological vulnerabilities. The present study reports the development of a new scale using a sequential exploratory design for assessing character strengths in children. Using a semi-structured interview schedule, in-depth interviews were conducted with children (n = 10), parents (n = 10), and teachers (n = 10). All these semi-structured interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and coded. The interview data were analysed, and items were generated through direct quotes. The item pool, consisting of 120 items, was administered to a sample of 600 children (300 boys & 300 girls). Exploratory factor analysis identified the factor structure, and confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the scale excellently fits the factors. The final 42-item CSS-C showed adequate internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.84) and adequate convergent validity. The developed scale also indicated good measurement invariance across genders. The proposed scale will be beneficial in understanding children’s strengths and protective factors, thereby developing strength-based interventions among children.