The three-dimensional contribution scale (3DCON): development and psychometric evaluation

Abstract

The first aim of the study was to develop a theory-based multidimensional measure of contribution, as currently known measures address the single dimension – contribution to the community. Eighteen adolescents from Lithuania (50% girls) aged 15 to 17 participated in focus groups as the corresponding population to consult about the concept of contribution. Following the Grounded Theory Approach, the 15-item Three-Dimensional Contribution Scale (3DCON), was developed. The face validity was established in the process of the scale development. The second aim of the study was to evaluate the psychometric quality of the newly developed scale. Participants (community sample) filled the questionnaire two times (N = 1422; 54.1% girls; Mage = 16.35, SDage = 1.13 at Time 1 and N = 786; 53.1% girls;Mage = 17.63, SDage = 0.72 at Time 2). The internal consistency analysis revealed an excellent reliability of the scale. The CFA results confirmed the structural validity of the three-dimensional contribution model. Multigroup (gender and age) and longitudinal measurement invariance demonstrated the robustness of the three factor structure. The results support the reliability and validity of the Three-dimensional Contribution Scale (3DCON) for assessing the contribution to self, family, and community as defined in the model of Positive Youth Development.