Evaluation of the psychometric properties of a more inclusive Mental Health Continuum Short-Form : examination of internal consistency, factor structure, and convergent validity using self-esteem and life satisfaction

Background: This paper aimed to investigate the psychometric properties of a revised MHC-SF version in comparison to the original MHC-SF on a total and subscale level. For the revision, the response format, the item formulation has been changed and four items regarding closer social relationships have been added. The internal consistency, factor structure and convergent validity with concepts of self-esteem and life satisfaction have been assessed and compared. Methods: Data from the personality core module and the well-being study of the LISS-panel have been used. The original MHC-SF was assessed with the 14-item version (Keyes, 2002). The revised MHC-SF encompassed 18 items. Self-esteem was measured with the Rosenberg self-esteem scale (Rosenberg, 1965). Life satisfaction was measured with the satisfaction with life scale (Diener et al., 1985). Cronbach's alpha, exploratory factor analyses, Pearson correlations and moderation analyses have been conducted. Results: The revised version displayed good to excellent internal consistency and performs similar the original version, despite higher levels with regards to the SWB subscale. A one-factor model was suggested similar to the original MHC-SF. Convergent validity could be shown with regards to both self-esteem and life satisfaction the total scale as well the EWB and PWB sub scales of the revised MHC-SF on a similar level as the original MHC-SF. Discussion: Despite the changes made in the revised MHC-SF, the questionnaire was able to maintain the psychometric qualities of the original MHC-SF. Thus, the psychometric properties are promising and need to be more extensively tested in the future.