Psychological Well-Being Scales

What it measures

A multidimensional model and measure of eudaimonic wellbeing capturing six dimensions of positive psychological functioning. Grounded in Aristotelian philosophy, humanistic psychology, and developmental theory. The 18-item short form is widely used; the 42- and 84-item versions have superior reliability.

Response format

Likert (1–6, strongly disagree to strongly agree); 3 items per subscale

Representative items

• I judge myself by what I think is important, not by the values of what others think is important. (Autonomy)
• In general, I feel I am in charge of the situation in which I live. (Environmental Mastery)
• I have the sense that I have developed a lot as a person over time. (Personal Growth)
• People would describe me as a giving person, willing to share my time with others. (Positive Relations)
• I have a sense of direction and purpose in life. (Purpose in Life)

Usage notes & scoring

(R)=some items reverse-scored. Short form (18 items) has acceptable reliability but the 42-item or 84-item versions are preferred for research if time permits. Freely available from Carol Ryff. Widely used in lifespan developmental research, health psychology, and positive psychology interventions.

Recommended companion scales

Citation

Ryff, C.D. (1989). Happiness is everything, or is it? Explorations on the meaning of psychological well-being. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 57(6), 1069–1081.

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