Construction and validation of the Reminiscence Functions Scale

J Gerontol. 1993 Sep;48(5):P256-62. doi: 10.1093/geronj/48.5.p256.

Abstract

This research introduces the Reminiscence Functions Scale (RFS), a 43-item questionnaire that can be used to assess reminiscence functions over the lifecourse. Adults (710) ranging in age from 17 to 91 (mean age = 45.76 years) completed a 54-item Reminiscence Functions Scale-prototype measure, the results of which were submitted to a principal components analysis. Results indicated the viability of a 43-item, 7-factor solution with good reliability. Factors were labeled: Boredom Reduction, Death Preparation, Identity/Problem-Solving, Conversation, Intimacy Maintenance, Bitterness Revival, and Teach/Inform. A separate validity study demonstrated the predictive validity of the RFS. Directions for future research are discussed.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Recall*
  • Middle Aged
  • Personality
  • Pilot Projects
  • Psychological Tests*
  • Psychometrics
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Surveys and Questionnaires