Abstract
This study explored the validity of the Values-In-Action Inventory of Strengths (VIA-IS) in an African context. A convenience sample of 256 African students completed the VIA-IS in English. The majority of strengths subscales had good reliability coefficients and mean scores comparable to those reported in a Western context. Satisfactory criterion-related validity was established through correlations with other well-being indices. First and second order confirmatory factor analyses only partly supported construct validity. All strengths subscales consisted of more than one factor. The hypothesised six-virtue cluster pattern was partially supported. Exploratory factor analysis suggested the possibility of an emic factor pattern of strengths consisting of 3 components: Within the first factor, Intrapersonal and Relationship Strengths, two clusters are distinguished, namely, Intrapersonal Strengths, and Horizontal and Vertical Relationship Strengths. The second factor was Integrity in Group Context. Thus, the VIA-IS has merit, but is not completely valid in its original form.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 133-142 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Journal of Psychology in Africa |
Volume | 18 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Jan 2008 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- African context
- Emic pattern
- Reliability
- Validity
- Via-is
- Virtue in action inventory of strengths
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Psychology