Validation of the Manga Attachment Scale (MAS) for Measuring Attachment to Manga – Japanese Comics

Abstract: Manga – Japanese comics – is a central pillar of Japanese culture and an expanding global phenomenon, yet little research has examined how individuals form and maintain meaningful connections with this medium. While previous studies conceptualized manga attachment as a multidimensional construct, no validated measures exist. This study refines and validates an existing set of manga attachment items, and introduces the Manga Attachment Scale (MAS), a psychometric tool assessing emotional, cognitive, and behavioral engagement with manga. Across three independent studies, the MAS was tested for factor structure, reliability, and validity. Study 1 ( N = 328) used Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) to refine the original item set, resulting in a 14-item, four-factor structure: Safe Haven, Separation Distress, Secure Base, and Proximity Maintenance. Study 2 ( N = 588) confirmed this structure via Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), demonstrating strong model fit. Study 3 ( N = 511) evaluated predictive, construct, convergent, and discriminant validity, showing significant relationships between the MAS, reading frequency, and manga’s perceived importance, while distinguishing it from other manga engagement measures. The MAS provides a validated framework for assessing manga attachment, contributing to media attachment research and extending Attachment Theory. This tool facilitates future investigations into manga’s role in well-being, identity formation, and media engagement.