Factor structure and validation of the Italian version of the self-compassion scale-short form (SCS-SF)

Social sciences and western psychology have long emphasized the value of a positive attitude toward oneself. Previous research developed psychometric tools such as the Self-Compassion Scale assessing self-compassion, but it is has long been known that short versions of psychometric tools may be particularly useful in settings where time constraints make the use of the long form less feasible. Existing literature shows that the Self-Compassion Scale-Short Form (SCS-SF) was developed in order to overcome these limitations. We validated the Italian version of the SCS-SF examining the factor structure and psychometric properties of the SCS-SF. We investigated its internal consistency and test-retest reliability, and demonstrated convergent and discriminant validity. We recruited a relatively large Italian non clinical sample (n = 321). We found that the scale retained a one-factor structure. We calculated Spearman correlation in order to assess convergent and discriminant validity. In order to assess reliability, retest coefficient was calculated as the Spearman correlation of observed scores at times 1 and 2 (after 3 weeks). In addition, the two-part Cronbach's alpha, the Spearman-Brown coefficient, and the Guttman's Lambda 4 coefficient were estimated as a further reliability measure using the split-half approach. The SCS-SF showed sound psychometric properties and good convergent and discriminant validity. Finally, the SCS-SF showed good test–retest reliability. The use of the SCS-SF is promoted in settings in which the assessment of a positive attitude toward oneself is of interest and with patients that may benefit from developing a compassionate self. Highlights : • We validated the Italian version of the Self-Compassion Scale-Short Form (SCS-SF) • Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling suggested a one-factor model solution • Confirmatory Factor Analysis revealed an adequate fit for the one-factor model • Convergent and discriminant analyses supported the construct validity of the SCS-SF • Test-retest, intraclass and split-half analyses supported the reliability of the SCS-SF