Life satisfaction in children: an analysis of the psychometric properties of the SWLS-C scale by Diener

Abstract

Background: The psychometric properties of the Satisfaction with Life Scale for Children (SWLS-C) are presented (Gadermann et al., Soc Indic Res 96:229–47, 2010). Methods: A total of 1,242 children participated (48.3% boys and 51.7% girls), aged between 10 and 14 years (M = 12.19, SD = 1.54). A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to evaluate the factorial structure of the SWLS-C, assuming a unidimensional model using the diagonally weighted least squares (DWLS) estimation method due to the lack of normality assumption. Internal consistency was calculated using Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega, and convergent validity was assessed using the Spearman Rho coefficient between the total SWLS-C score and the Life Satisfaction evaluations from the SLSS and the Perceived Social Support scale by Zimet. The effect of age and sex variables was estimated as predictors through a multivariate regression model. Results: The fit and goodness indices (RMSEA =.058, CFI =.098, TLI =.096, GFI =.099). Conclusions: Show that the scale is valid and reliable for assessing life satisfaction in Colombian children and adolescents.