Exploring the dimensionality and the psychometric properties of the TRIM-18 in the Spanish context

Introduction: The Transgression-Related Interpersonal Motivations Inventory (TRIM-18) is an instrument that assesses episodic forgiveness composed of three subscales: avoidance, revenge and benevolence. In the present study we examined the dimensionality of the Spanish version of the TRIM-18 (TRIM-18-S). We provided evidences of estimated reliability and construct validity of the interpretation of the scores. Method A total of 943 participants completed the TRIM-18-S. A subset of 94 participants completed the measure again to allow computation of two-week estimated temporal stability, and 277 participants completed additional measures of empathy, anger, and information regarding the relation with the offender to allow computations supporting construct validity. Results: The TRIM-18-S showed good psychometric properties. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed a three-factor structure. Alphas ranged from .80 to .90. Two week estimated test-retest correlations ranged from .74 to .84. Construct validity was supported by correlations with a single-item measuring forgiveness and with empathy, state anger, and closeness and type of relationship. Conclusions: The scale presents adequate psychometric properties for its potential use in Spanish population.