The Polish version of the Survey of Autobiographical Memory (SAM): factor structure and psychometric evaluation

The present study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Polish version of the Survey of Autobiographical Memory (SAM) as a self-report measure of perceived recollective capacity. We examined its reliability, tested several competing structural models, and assessed convergent validity with the Autobiographical Recollection Test (ART). Confirmatory factor analyses indicated that neither a one-factor nor an orthogonal four-factor model provided an adequate fit to the data. In contrast, the correlated four-factor solution – comprising Episodic, Semantic, Spatial, and Future components – offered the best representation of the data, replicating the original structure reported in prior validations. Correlations among subscales showed that the Episodic, Future, and Semantic dimensions shared substantial variance, whereas Spatial memory was relatively distinct. Convergent validity analyses revealed that the Episodic and Future subscales were most strongly associated with ART indices of vividness, coherence, imagery, and scene construction, consistent with theoretical models emphasising shared constructive processes in remembering and imagining. Overall, the Polish SAM demonstrated robust psychometric properties and strong theoretical coherence with contemporary accounts of autobiographical memory, providing a valid and reliable tool for assessing individual differences in the perceived richness and organisation of personal memories.