Psychometric Evaluation of the Bangla Version of the Self-Compassion Scale-Short Form (SCS-SF)

ObjectivesThe psychometric properties of the Self-Compassion Scale-Short Form (SCS-SF) in the context of Bangladesh are yet to be addressed. Towards this end, the present research examined the factor structure, reliability, and validity of the Bangla SCS-SF in Bangladeshi adults.MethodThe study was conducted among a convenience sample of 782 younger and middle-aged adults aged between 20 and 58 years. To examine the factor structure, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and to confirm the factor retention, a parallel analysis was done. To assess and confirm the predefined structures (6-factor, 2-factor, and 1-factor), we conducted confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega were used to determine the reliability statistics. Multi-group confirmatory factor analysis (MGCFA) was performed to test the measurement invariances.ResultsA 2-factor structure was found using EFA, and the same solution was retained through parallel analysis. In CFA, both 6-factor and 2-factor structures fit the data well. Nevertheless, the values of Akaike Information Criterion did not support the 6-factor solution; instead, they showed the 2-factor model as the best fit. According to classical test theory, mean inter-item correlations, corrected item-total correlations, and internal consistency reliabilities were found to be acceptably high. Results of MGCFA revealed invariances based on gender, age, and marital status. An association of SCS-SF with stress and adaptation suggested the concurrent validity of the measure.ConclusionsAltogether, the Bangla SCS-SF has been identified as a valid tool to understand whether a self-compassionate attitude helps individuals to gain insight into the way they relate to themselves.PreregistrationThis study is not preregistered.