The approval of the blank test "Patriogram" by S.I. Kudinov and A.V. Potyomkin: assessment of structure and reliability

The subject of the study is the testing of the "Patriogram" test by S.I. Kudinov and A.V. Potemkin (2009) on a Latvian sample of subjects. This methodology is aimed at studying patriotism as a multi-component, systemic-functional property of personality, characterized by a holistic structure, stable interrelations among its elements, and irreplacability in the characterization of personality. A systematic analysis of scientific sources on patriotism issues allowed for a conceptual clarification of this construct. Based on the interpretation of the concept of "patriotism" proposed by A.V. Potemkin, we suggest the following refined definition: "Patriotism is a systemic-functional property of personality, represented by a set of value, dynamic, emotional, volitional, motivational, cognitive, and reflexive-evaluative components, as well as characteristics of difficulties that ensure the degree of readiness to engage in prosocial activities that contribute to the prosperity of one’s country and society and their protection." The research was conducted in three stages. Initially, a double translation of statements into Latvian was performed with the participation of 48 respondents. In the second stage, the structural validity of the first model of the test was checked on a sample of 200 Latvians. The significance of the second model of the methodology was confirmed in the third stage of the study, with a sample of 250 Latvian students. The results showed satisfactory correspondence to the original data. The tested version of the test included 92 statements from the original 112. The removed 20 statements with insignificant loadings on the factors are explained as irrelevant in relation to the patriotism of Latvians, revealing the specificity of this phenomenon. These statements characterize the weakness and instability of the expression of patriotism, as well as a lack of knowledge and skills regarding participation in patriotic activities. Statements related to experiencing feelings of confusion and awkwardness when expressing one's patriotism, and that such activity is thankless, also proved to be insignificant. This conclusion is supported by studies on patriotism in Latvia, which indicate a very high readiness among Latvian youth to express their patriotism and a good understanding of the tools to do so.