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Validating a new measure of self-complexity
Citation
Luo, W., Watkins, D., & Lam, R. Y. H. (2008). Validating a new measure of self-complexity. Journal of Personality Assessment, 91(4), 381-386. https://doi.org/10.1080/00223890902936223
Author
Luo, Serena Wenshu
•
Watkins, David
•
Lam, Raymond Y. H.
Abstract
The construct of self-complexity has been recognized as important for understanding psychological adjustment. However, research in this area has been impeded by measurement problems. In particular, the most commonly used measure, Linville’s H statistic, cannot assess this construct appropriately. This paper presents a new measure designed to tap two components of self-complexity separately: the number of self-aspects and the average distinction among them. A validation study with 131 Chinese college students was conducted. The results indicate that (1) this new measure is not confounded with conscious social desirability bias, (2) it has incremental validity beyond existing measures, and (3) the two components as assessed by this new measure are relatively independent and have different psychological functions. The implications of these findings for future studies of self-complexity and clinical practice are discussed.
Date Issued
2008
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
Journal
Journal of Personality Assessment