Reliability and Validity of Ryff's Psychological Well-being Scales

Considering the importance of assessing aspects of well-being in individuals and its role in physical and psychological health, this study was carried out to examine the reliability and validity of Ryff’s Psychological Well-being Scales (RPWBS). In a descriptive cross-sectional study 145 students of Islamic Azad University, Azadshahr Branch (96 women and 49 men) who were selected using random stratified method, completed RPWBS, Self-acceptance subscales, Oxford Happiness Scale, and Rosenberg’s Self-esteem Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistic methods and correlation coefficient. The test-retest reliability coefficient of RPWBS was 0.82. The subscales of Self-acceptance, Positive Relation with Others, Autonomy, Environmental Mastery, Purpose in Life, and Personal Growth were found to be 0.71, 0.77, 0.78, 0.77, 0.70, and 0.78 respectively, which were statistically significant (p<0.001). The correlation coefficient of RPWBS with Satisfaction with Life, Happiness, and Self-esteem were also found to be: 0.47, 0.58, and 0.46 respectively which were also significant (P<0.001). The RPWBS are valid and reliable and are suitable for use in assessing the psychological well-being of Iranian students.