Background
A relatively novel concept – “mindful self-care” – gained research attention in the past few years, adding a promising way to increase optimal functioning in humans. Initial evidence was reported regarding the psychometric properties of the Mindful Self-Care Scale (MSCS, Cook-Cottone & Guyker, 2018). However, there is a lack of evidence to confirm its criterion validity and factorial validity in specific age groups with distinct developmental characteristics.
Hypotheses/Research Questions
We aimed to validate the factorial validity and criterion validity of the MSCS in emerging adults.
Sample Characteristics and Sample Size
Participants consisted of 912 undergraduate students (aged 18 to 23, Mage = 19.55, SD = 1.87) from two public universities in north central and south-central regions of the United States (69.4% women, 29.6% men, and .7% gender variant/non-conforming; European American 78.5%, African American, 10.7%, other racial groups 10.8%).
Design
Participants completed the original 33-item MSCS online. The full sample data were analyzed.
Results
Four items were deemed questionable in the original MSCS for the target population based on preliminary analysis and thus removed. Using the remaining items, confirmatory factor analyses results supported the original six-factor model, including Physical Care, Self-Compassion and Purpose, Mindful Awareness, Mindful Relaxation, Supportive Relationships, and Supportive Structure (C2 = 1908.03 (df = 419), p < 0.001, CFI = 0.90, SRMR = 0.07, and RMSEA = 0.06). The coefficient alpha for the full scale was .91. Criterion validity was supported by the correlational results between the MSCS and various criterion measures (Depression, Anxiety, and Stress, and life satisfaction). The Mindful Relaxation subscale has some problems and needs further revision.
Scientific Contribution
This study supports the use of a modified MSCS among emerging adults as a reliable and valid measure of mindful self-care, which will facilitate future research on this construct.