Psychometric Testing of the Arabic Version of the Reminiscence Functions Scale

Background and Purpose: The Reminiscence Functions Scale (RFS), a reliable and valid 43-item scale, measures eight specific reasons as to why people reminisce. The current literature lacks an Arabic version of empirically-validated tools that measure reminiscence functions. This study aimed to test the psychometric properties of the translated version of the RFS in a sample of Arabic speakers from Jordan. Methods: The scale was first translated into Arabic and then was translated back into English. A committee of experts reviewed the Arabic scale and then confirmed its content validity. A convenience, snowball sample of 422 subjects completed the Arabic RFS. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and the internal consistency method were used to evaluate the factorial structure and reliability of the Arab RFS, respectively. Results: The Arabic RFS reported excellent content validity. EFA yielded a six-factor, 39-item structure that accounted for 52% of the variance. Cronbach's alphas for the six factors ranged from 0.82 to 0.91, indicating good to excellent internal consistency. Conclusions: The Arabic RFS is a valid and reliable measure of reminiscence functions for Jordanian adults.