Measuring the Virtues and Character Traits of Rehabilitation Clients: The Adapted Inventory of Virtues and Strengths

Purpose To develop the Adapted Inventory of Virtues and Strengths (AIVS), a measure of rehabilitation clients’ virtues and character traits. Methods Test items were devised through a multi-step procedure, and exploratory factor analysis was employed to derive the factor structure of the AIVS. Item-total correlation and internal consistency (Cronbach’s α) were examined to test reliability of the AIVS. Results AIVS subscales include Emotional Transcendence, Practical Wisdom, Integrity, Courage, and Commitment to Action. Construct validity of this measure was evaluated by correlating AIVS factors with measures of resilience, life satisfaction, and four types of well-being: physical, psychological, financial, and family and social well-being. AIVS subscales of Emotional Transcendence and Commitment to Action were moderately correlated with life satisfaction and three well-being areas, including family and social, physical, and psychological life. Most of the correlation coefficients between AIVS Practical Wisdom, Courage and Integrity factors and measures of life satisfaction and well-being fell below r = .3. However, greater correlations were found between all AIVS factors and resilience. Reliability information was examined through internal consistency (coefficient alpha) for each AIVS subscale, as well as examination of item-total correlation analysis within each subscale. Internal consistency estimates for AIVS subscales ranged from .77 to .84. Conclusion The AIVS is a reliable measure when used with the studied sample; implications for studying virtue and character strengths in rehabilitation, as well as potential for clinical use of the AIVS, are addressed.