Exploring the Psychometric Properties of the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC)

Abstract The aim of this paper was to critically evaluate the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC). The CD-RISC is a brief, self-report instrument consisting of 25 items on a 5-point Likert scale which ranges from zero to four with higher scores reflecting greater resilience. A five-factor scale is used to conceptualise resilience with eight items on personal competence, high standards, and tenacity; seven items on trust in one’s instinct, tolerance of negative effects, and strengthening effects of stress; five items on positive acceptance of change and secure relationships; three items on control; and two items on spiritual influences. The CD-RISC has been used across a range of contexts and populations and has been translated into many languages. The CD-RISC has been critically evaluated as a part of wider reviews and has been critiqued within individual studies which have utilised the measure; however, there has not yet been a specific, critical evaluation of the scale which provides a comprehensive picture of the measure by drawing such research together. Given how widely the measure is used across both clinical and non-clinical populations, it is felt necessary to provide clinicians and researchers with an evaluation of the measure in terms of its reliability and validity. Such information is essential when drawing conclusions from scores on the measure. As such, this article will present and discuss the strengths and limitations of the CD-RISC with reference to its psychometric properties. In addition, the implications of the findings of the review will be discussed with reference to its use in current practice and research.