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Development and validation of a self-critical cognition scale
1Department of Counselling Psychology, Faculty of Education, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
Psychological Reports
|February 1, 1993
Summary
A new 13-item Self-critical Cognition scale reliably measures negative self-processing and failure in positive self-processing. This validated tool aids research into self-critical tendencies and related psychological conditions.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Cognitive Science
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Self-critical cognition involves negative self-processing and difficulties with positive self-appraisal.
- Existing measures may not fully capture this cognitive tendency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a scale measuring self-critical cognition.
- To assess the reliability and construct validity of the new scale.
Main Methods:
- A 13-item Self-critical Cognition scale was administered to 561 university students.
- Internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and factor analysis were conducted.
- Correlations with established measures of self-esteem, social anxiety, shyness, fear of negative evaluation, and depression were examined.
Main Results:
- The scale demonstrated high internal consistency (alpha = .89) and test-retest reliability (r = .83).
- Factor analysis revealed two factors: negative self-processing and failure in positive self-processing.
- Significant correlations supported construct validity, linking self-critical cognition to lower self-esteem and higher social anxiety, shyness, fear of negative evaluation, and depression.
Conclusions:
- The Self-critical Cognition scale is a reliable and valid instrument.
- The scale can be utilized in experimental and clinical research settings to study self-critical tendencies.