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Development and preliminary evaluation of the existential meaning scale.
1Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298-0567, USA. delyon@vcu.edu
Summary
The Existential Meaning Scale (EMS) was developed and validated, showing satisfactory psychometric properties. Scores were lower in individuals with HIV-1 infection, suggesting its utility in clinical populations.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychometrics
Background:
- Assessing existential meaning is crucial for understanding psychological well-being.
- Existing measures may require further refinement or validation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and psychometrically evaluate the Existential Meaning Scale (EMS).
- To assess the construct validity and reliability of the EMS.
Main Methods:
- Factor analysis and correlational analyses were employed to examine construct validity.
- Reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha coefficient.
- The scale was administered to a sample of 418 individuals, including a subgroup with HIV-1 infection.
Main Results:
- The final 20-item Existential Meaning Scale (EMS) demonstrated a Cronbach's alpha coefficient greater than .80.
- Correlational analyses supported the construct validity of the EMS.
- Individuals with HIV-1 infection scored significantly lower on the EMS compared to general population samples.
Conclusions:
- The Existential Meaning Scale (EMS) exhibits satisfactory initial psychometric properties.
- Further validation in diverse clinical populations is recommended.
- The scale's responsiveness over time requires additional investigation for longitudinal studies.