The development and initial validation of a new scale to measure explanatory style

Abstract

The reformulated learned helplessness (RLH) theory and its associated construct of explanatory style have been tested extensively using the Attributional Style Questionnaire (ASQ: Peterson et al., 1982) against outcomes such as depression. However, support for the RLH theory is best described as inconclusive. This is because: (a) the causal-locus dimension is poorly defined and the causal-locus items have poor reliability and validity; (b) the ASQ has not been demonstrated to have structural validity; and (c) the definitions of explanatory style are inconsistent across studies. The current study was conducted with the goal of developing a valid and reliable measure of explanatory style. The new measure met simple structure when tested using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, and each short subscale had acceptable internal reliability. Further, construct validity was partially demonstrated, but incremental validity was not supported. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.