Adaptation of the self-concept clarity scale in Hungary

Abstract

Theoretical background: The Self-Concept Clarity Scale (SCCS) developed by Campbell et al. (1996) is suitable for measuring one structural feature of the self-concept, its clearly and firmly defined nature. Purpose: In this study we present the Hungarian version of the Self-Concept Clarity Scale (SCCS-H) and evaluate its psychometric characteristics. Method: 1205 persons (245 men, 960 women; average age 27.05 years, SD = 9.8 years) participated in a cross-sectional, self-reporting questionnaire-based research. Besides SCCS, the Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale (RSES), the Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI), the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale (IUS) and the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire (SPQ-BH) were also administered. Results: The exploratory factor analysis revealed one factor, which explained 50.8% of the total variance. The fit of our one-dimensional model was acceptable (CFI= 0.939; TLI=0.925; RMSEA=0.079; CI90=0.072-0.085). The reliability analysis indicated good internal consistency for the instrument (α=0.88). Construct-validity results are consistent with the literature: self-concept clarity moderately positively correlated with self-esteem, however they are not replaceable constructs. Self-concept clarity is moderately negatively associated with anxiety-based somatic and cognitive symptoms (ASI) and with negative responses to uncertain, ambiguous events/situations (IUS). In addition to anxiety-based personality traits we also verified the negative correlation of SCCS with the degree of schizotypic involvement (SPQ). Conclusion: The Hungarian version of Self-Concept Clarity Scale can be considered a reliable and valid measurement tool for the clear and confident nature of self-concept. Being an indicator of general, psychological vulnerability, SCCS may serve both as a reference point for psychopathological research and as a screening tool for mental patients, furthermore for assessing psychotherapeutic efficacy too.