Factor structure of the College Adjustment Scales

The present study examined the underlying structure of the College Adjustment Scales via principal components analysis. A correlation matrix of the nine subscales showed significant multicolinearity. A subsequent principal components analysis demonstrated that one factor accounted for 57% of the total variance and that the majority of subscales were moderately correlated with this single factor. The results suggest that the College Adjustment Scales may measure the same underlying construct and that the clinical distinctions implied by subscale scores should be regarded with caution. Conclusions are constrained by sample size and demographic characteristics, but the results suggest the need for further empirical validation of the College Adjustment Scales, which may be useful in college counseling centers.