Validation of the Moroccan Three-dimensional Wisdom Scale (3D-WS): A cross-cultural exploration of wisdom

This study adapted and validated the Three-Dimensional Wisdom Scale (3D-WS; Ardelt, 2003) for a Moroccan adult sample. The 3D-WS conceptualizes wisdom through cognitive, reflective, and affective dimensions. A total of 404 Moroccan adults (56.9% women; M = 31.8 years, SD = 9.4) completed an online survey. Exploratory factor analysis (principal-axis extraction with Promax rotation) reduced the scale to 15 culturally adapted items across three factors, accounting for 44.3% of the total variance. Confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated satisfactory fit: χ²/df = 1.46, GFI = 0.94, CFI = 0.91, RMSEA = 0.049. Bifactor modeling indicated a strong general wisdom factor (ECV = 0.62; ωh = 0.79). The adapted Moroccan 3D-WS showed good internal consistency and construct validity. These findings support its use as a culturally sensitive tool for assessing wisdom in North African contexts and contribute to the global understanding of wisdom’s multidimensional structure.