Mental Health Continuum–Short Form scale: Validation in a sample of Peruvian university students

Escala Mental Health Continuum–Short Form: Validación en una muestra de estudiantes universitarios peruanos

Resumen

ABSTRACT

Objective: This study examined the psychometric properties of the Mental Health Continuum–Short Form (MHC-SF) scale in students at a public university in Lima, Peru. Method: A sample of 1066 students from aged 18 to 30 years (M = 20.17, SD = 1.92). Its divergent validity was contrasted with the DASS-21 Scale; in addition, we performed construct validity, invariance and reliability analyses. Results: The instrument showed an adequate fit for the three-factor model (emotional, psychological and social wellbeing), with the following indices: χ²(74) = 404.38, p < .01; TLI = .99, CFI = .99, RMSEA = .08, SRMR = .05, GFI = .099, and χ²/df = 5.4. Interdimensional correlations ranged from .76 to .87, and the scale met gender invariance criteria. Divergent validity was moderate (-.37 to -.61), convergent validity was confirmed (AVE > .50), and discriminant validity was acceptable (HTMT < .85). Finally, reliability coefficients (alpha, omega, and composite) all exceeded .83. Conclusions: These findings support the use of the instrument in the Peruvian unive rsity population.

RESUMEN

Objetivo: Se examinaron las propiedades psicométricas de la escala Mental Health Continuum–Short Form (MHC-SF) en estudiantes de una universidad pública de Lima-Perú. Método: Participaron 1066 estudiantes de 18 a 30 años (M = 20.17, DT = 1.92), se contrastó su validez convergente con la Escala DASS-21. Asimismo, se realizaron análisis de validez de constructo, invarianza y fiabilidad. Resultados: El instrumento mostró ajuste adecuado para el modelo de tres factores (bienestar emocional, psicológico y social) con valores χ²(74) = 404.38, p < .01; TLI = .99, CFI = .99, RMSEA = .08, SRMR = .05, GFI = .099 y χ²/df = 5.4. Correlaciones entre dimensiones de .76 a .87; criterios de invariancia según género; validez divergente moderada de -,37a -,61; validez convergente AVE > .50 y validez discriminante HTMT < .85; finalmente, coeficientes alfa, omega y compuesto >.83. Conclusiones: Las propiedades del instrumento permiten su uso en la población universitaria peruana.