Psychometric evaluation of the Mental Health Continuum-Short Form (MHC-SF) with adolescents living in the West of Scotland

• Main Author: Bower, Rebecca
• Published: University of Glasgow 2017
• Subjects: 362.2; BF Psychology
• Online Access: https://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.724045

Objective: The Mental Health Continuum-Short Form (MHC-SF) measures the three core components of mental health (emotional, social and psychological wellbeing), as defined by the World Health Organisation. This study sought to bridge a gap in the literature, by examining its psychometric properties and structural validity for use with adolescents in the UK. Method: In total, 790 adolescents aged 13-16 (50.4% female; M=13.96, SD=.86) from the West of Scotland completed the MHC-SF and four compactor scales. The study employed a quantitative repeated measures (test-retest) design, whereby 605 participants completed the MHC-SF two weeks later. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) on four different theoretical models of mental wellbeing determined the relative fit of the tripartite MHC-SF factor structure, comprised of emotional, social and psychological wellbeing. Further CFA sought to confirm the dual factor model of mental health. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis matched the tripartite model of mental wellbeing. The data fit a second order model of mental wellbeing equally well, proving evidence for an overarching latent general wellbeing factor. Results indicated good internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Convergent validity was indicated by significant positive correlations with other measures of wellbeing. Additionally, significant negative correlations with measures of mental illness indicated discriminant validity. CFA confirmed the dual factor model of mental health, where mental wellbeing and mental illness are two correlated, yet distinct factors of mental health. Conclusion: The MHC-SF is a psychometrically sound instrument, providing valid and reliable measurement of mental wellbeing and its three first order factors, with adolescents in the UK.