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Psychometric properties of the problem solving inventory in a Singapore young male adult sample

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Abstract

The Problem Solving Inventory (PSI) is a widely used instrument that measures problem-solving appraisal, which has been associated with suicidal ideation. However, the PSI has yielded different factorial structures in Western and Asian studies. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the PSI with a Southeast-Asian sample made of 342 young adult males living in Singapore. The participants completed the PSI, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (D-Scale), Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire, Hope Scale, and Suicidal Ideation Scale. Confirmatory factor analyses showed that the data fitted a three-factor model (problem-solving efficacy [PSE], rational coping [RC], and dysfunctional coping [DC] factors), supporting previous findings in Asia. Appropriate internal reliability for the total (.83) and the three subscales, .85 (PSE), .72 (RC), and .73 (DC), was found. Convergent validity was shown by significant correlations between problem solving appraisal and depression, interpersonal needs, and hope. Predictive validity was attested with positive correlations between problem solving appraisal and suicidal ideation. Concurrent discrimination was also demonstrated by differences in problem-solving appraisals between groups with low and high depression, interpersonal needs, hope, and suicidal ideation. The findings showed that the PSI with a three factors solution was a valid and reliable scale for use with young male Singaporeans.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, College of Healthcare Sciences, James Cook University, 149 Sims Drive, Singapore, 387380, Singapore

    Dorothy C. H. Teo, Lidia Suárez & Tian P. S. Oei

  2. The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia

    Tian P. S. Oei

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  1. Dorothy C. H. Teo
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  2. Lidia Suárez
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  3. Tian P. S. Oei
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Correspondence to Lidia Suárez.

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Teo, D.C.H., Suárez, L. & Oei, T.P.S. Psychometric properties of the problem solving inventory in a Singapore young male adult sample. Curr Psychol 40, 1420–1428 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-018-0073-7

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