Frugality Scale

What it measures

The definitive scale for measuring consumer frugality, validated across six studies and seven samples including both students and nonstudents, with a probability sample and Tightwad Gazette subscribers as known-groups validity benchmark. Alpha consistently 0.73–0.88; factor loadings 0.53–0.77. Frugality is discriminant from compulsive buying (r=–0.25), value consciousness (r=0.54), price consciousness (r=0.45), materialism (r=–0.26), and susceptibility to interpersonal influence (r=–0.10). No social desirability or response set bias. Tightwad Gazette subscribers scored significantly higher (M=44.43) than a probability sample (M=40.43). Mean in student sample M=36.

Representative items

• If you take good care of your possessions, you will definitely save money in the long run.
• There are many things that are normally thrown away that are still quite useful.
• Making better use of my resources makes me feel good.
• I believe in being careful in how I spend money.
• I am willing to wait on a purchase I want so that I can save money.

Citation

Lastovicka, J.L., Bettencourt, L.A., Hughner, R.S., & Kuntze, R.J. (1999). Lifestyle of the tight and frugal: Theory and measurement. Journal of Consumer Research, 26(1), 85–98.