Psychometric properties of the positivity scale in a Latin American sample: positivity as a unidimensional...

Despite extensive research in European and North American contexts, studies on positivity in Latin America remain limited. The sociocultural dynamics of the region present unique challenges that may shape the expression and relevance of positivity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Positivity Scale, a self-report measure that assesses the tendency to view and approach life and experiences from a positive perspective, in Latin American population.

This was a cross-sectional instrumental study. The research included 1,017 adults from Mexico, Colombia, and Peru who were recruited through online platforms. The participants completed a survey including a sociodemographic questionnaire, the P-Scale, and measures of self-esteem (RSES), satisfaction with life (SWLS), optimism (LOT-R), depressive symptoms (PHQ-2), and negative affect (PANAS). Confirmatory factor analysis was used to evaluate the scale's unidimensional structure. Measurement invariance across countries and sex was assessed. Convergent and divergent validity was evaluated through correlation analyses. Reliability was examined via Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega.

Confirmatory factor analysis of the P-scale revealed that the removal of item 6, which had a low factor loading, and the inclusion of a covariance between items 1 and 4 significantly improved the model fit. The final model demonstrated acceptable fit indices, with standardized factor loadings ranging from .45 to .85. Invariance testing by country and sex remained within acceptable thresholds, supporting the scale´s configural, metric and scalar invariance. Reliability analyses demonstrated strong internal consistency (α = .86, ω = .86). Correlation analyses revealed significant positive relationships of positivity with self-esteem, life satisfaction and negative correlations with depressive symptomatology and negative affect.

The findings support the generality of the positivity construct while also highlighting the importance of cultural adaptations to ensure measurement precision. By having a validated P-Scale, researchers and practitioners can better understand and promote well-being in populations facing unique sociocultural challenges.