Construction of a New Strengths Identification Scale

Abstract

The aim of this study was to develop original strengths categories that correspond to Japanese culture, and to construct a strengths identification scale to assess individual strengths. Sixty strength categories were created and a strengths identification scale was constructed. Data were collected from 427 participants. The characteristics of each strength category were identified along five dimensions: direction, duration, range, processing, and action. The distribution of the strength categories by mean ranks is also given. Factor analyses were conducted, and four strength category groups established. From these analyses, reliable and valid strength categories and a strengths identification scale were developed, which will be able to serve as a fundamental framework and support for future research and practice in Japan.