A Multiple Indicator Multiple Cause (MIMIC) model of the Self-Compassion Scale Youth (SCS-Y) and investigation of differential item functioning in China, Hong Kong and UK adolescents

Abstract

<p>Objectives: Self-compassion allows one to accept themselves, lower self-criticism and self-judgement and view one's failures and setbacks in a balanced way. Self-compassion in adolescents is an important protective factor against mental distress. However, it is subject to gender and cultural influences. In light of the paucity of self-compassion scales in adolescents, it is crucial to explore measurement invariance of self-compassion measures in adolescents across cultures for its future clinical application in measuring the outcome of compassion-based interventions. The current study validated the Self-Compassion Scale for Youth (SCS-Y) in a large cross-cultural sample. Method: A community sample of 2881 of adolescents aged 12–18 years across Hong Kong, China and the UK were recruited through the online platform Qualtrics. Psychometric properties of the SCS-Y were examined including its reliability and concurrent validity, and a Multiple Indicator Multiple Cause (MIMIC) model was adopted to test measurement invariance of the SCS-Y while differential item functioning (DIF) was checked across gender and countries. Results: Examination of the SCS-Y revealed good psychometric properties including a high reliability, discriminant validity and concurrent validity with SCS. A MIMIC model yielded good model fit for a hypothetical 6-factor model fit (CFI = 0.980; TLI = 0.974; RMSEA = 0.038). Two items were detected for DIF across country. Conclusion: The study established good psychometric properties for SCS-Y including measurement invariance across gender and country. This analysis prepares the SCS-Y for subsequent evaluation of compassion-focused therapy for young people across cultures. Preregistration: This study was not pre-registered.</p>