Psychometric Properties of the Bright Personality Traits Scale in Iranian Students

Extended Abstract

Background

In recent years, psychological research has placed increasing emphasis on positive and prosocial traits, leading to the development of models such as the "Light" personality traits. These models were introduced to assess traits associated with positive social behaviors and adaptive functioning. However, Light personality traits have been observed to have a moderate correlation with Dark personality traits, suggesting that these constructs may not be entirely opposite. This observation has prompted discussions regarding their conceptual clarity and theoretical foundations. Additionally, Light personality traits focus on a limited subset of positive traits, which some argue may overlook other fundamental dimensions of positive personality. To address this limitation, the "Bright" personality traits model was introduced. This model aims to encompass fundamental adaptive and prosocial dimensions of personality, highlighting three core traits: altruism, forgiveness, and gratitude (Gouveia et al., 2021). These traits are considered crucial for enhancing interpersonal harmony, emotional well-being, and social cohesion. The Bright model offers a more integrated and theoretical framework for examining positive aspects of personality, while allowing for further theoretical exploration to refine its foundations and scope.

Methods

This study employed a descriptive research design with a focus on factor analysis to validate the Bright personality traits model. The statistical population included students from Zanjan University during the 2021–2022 academic year. Although there is no fixed rule for determining the sample size in structural equation modeling, researchers typically multiply the number of questionnaire indicators by 5 to 10. To ensure robust findings and mitigate for potential questionnaire biases, the researchers opted for a larger sample size. Ultimately, 450 valid responses were collected for statistical analysis. Half of the collected sample (225 participants) was used for exploratory factor analysis (EFA), while the other half (225 participants) was reserved for confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). A random cluster sampling method was employed, whereby several faculties were randomly selected, followed by the selection of classes within those faculties. To evaluate test-retest reliability, 40 participants were randomly selected and asked to complete the scale again after four weeks. Participants were informed about the research objectives, assured of the anonymity of their data, and advised of their right to withdraw from the study at any time. This ethical approach ensured voluntary and informed participation. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 25 and AMOS 24 software.

Results

To assess the face validity of the Bright Personality Traits Scale, feedback was collected from 10 psychology experts regarding the clarity, relevance, and comprehensibility of the items. After minor revisions, the questionnaire demonstrated satisfactory face validity, with items accurately and understandably measuring the intended constructs. Cronbach's alpha and test-retest correlation coefficients for the total scale and subscales were above 0.7, indicating adequate reliability (internal consistency and test-retest reliability). Exploratory factor analysis confirmed a three-factor structure, explaining 51.86% of the total variance. Items with factor loadings above 0.40 were retained under their respective factors. Confirmatory factor analysis also supported the three-factor structure and indicated excellent model fit (χ² = 320.34, df = 132, χ²/df = 2.42, GFI = 0.92, AGFI = 0.90, IFI = 0.93, TFI = 0.92, CFI = 0.93, RMSEA = 0.056). Discriminant validity was assessed by examining the correlation between Bright and Dark personality traits. The analysis revealed a significant relationship, with Bright traits showing a stronger correlation with Dark traits compared to Light traits (r = -0.66). This finding highlights the need for further exploration to better understand the independence and overlap of these constructs.

Conclusion

This study aimed to introduce the Bright personality traits model and examine the psychometric properties of its associated scale. The findings confirmed the reliability of the scale, demonstrating strong internal consistency across all subscales and the total scale. Factor analyses supported the three-factor structure, with all items demonstrating acceptable loadings, eliminating the need to remove any items. The CFA results demonstrated excellent model fit and confirmed its structural validity. Furthermore, convergent validity analysis highlighted the potential of the Bright personality traits model in representing positive aspects of personality compared to the Light model. By encompassing core traits such as altruism, forgiveness, and gratitude, the Bright model provides a comprehensive framework for understanding prosocial and adaptive dimensions of personality. These findings underscore the practical potential of the Bright traits model in both research and applied settings. Future studies are encouraged to expand the sample population and explore additional methodological approaches to enhance the model's validity and applicability.

Practical Implications

This scale can be utilized in various fields, including positive psychology, mental health, and social psychology, for future studies.