Validation of the Transpersonal Gratitude Scale (TGS) and the Relationship between Transpersonal Gratitude, Spiritual Well-Being and Distress in India

Abstract

This study explores the psychometric properties of the transpersonal gratitude scale (TGS) in the Indian context. It also examines the relationship between transpersonal gratitude, spiritual well-being, and distress. The psychometric properties (reliability and validity) of the TGS were evaluated with the help of two studies. In the first study, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) reported a four-factor solution. These four factors- expression of gratitude, value of gratitude, transcendent gratitude, and spiritual connection- explained 74.1% of the total variance. Further, CFA results indicated an excellent model fit of four-factor structure derived from EFA. These findings recommended appropriate factorial validity of TGS in the Indian context. In the second study, Cronbach’s alpha and composite reliability values recommended reliability of TGS among Indians. Also, the average variance explained (AVE) values and the Fornell–Larcker test concluded convergent and discriminant validity of the scale. In addition, positive correlations were reported between TGS, GRAT-16 (gratitude resentment and appreciation scale), and spiritual well-being scale scores. Also, a negative linkage was reported between TGS and distress score. These associations established criterion validity of the scale. Overall, the scale reported acceptable psychometric properties in the Indian context.