On the dimensionality of the stress-related growth scale: one, three, or seven factors?

J Pers Assess. 2004 Jun;82(3):281-90. doi: 10.1207/s15327752jpa8203_04.

Abstract

We examined the factorial validity and dimensionality of the Stress-Related Growth Scale (SRGS; Park, Cohen, & Murch, 1996) using a large multiethnic sample (n = 1,070). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses suggested that a multidimensional representation of the SRGS fit better than a unidimensional representation. Specifically, we cross-validated both a 3-factor model and a 7-factor model using confirmatory factor analysis and were shown to be invariant across gender and ethnic groups. The 3-factor model was represented by global dimensions of growth that included rational/mature thinking, affective/emotional growth, and religious/spiritual growth. We replicated the 7-factor model of Armeli, Gunthert, and Cohen (2001) and it represented more specific components of growth such as Self-Understanding and Treatment of Others. However, some factors of the 7-factor model had questionable internal consistency and were strongly intercorrelated, suggesting redundancy. The findings support the notion that the factor structure of both the original 1-factor and revised 7-factor models are unstable and that the 3-factor model developed in this research has more reliable psychometric properties and structure.

Publication types

  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Adult
  • Ethnicity
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Models, Psychological
  • Psychometrics
  • Stress, Psychological*
  • United States