The life satisfaction index a (LISA) was examined by factor analytic techniques. The data do not support the original conceptual framework of neugarten and her colleagues. Although the results indicate a strong need for caution, there is evidence of an alternative interpretation of the LISA that has a degree of consistency across racial and gender categories. In addition, these findings raise implicit questions about prior research using the LISA and demonstrate the importance of making comprehensive, critical evaluations of scales with complex theoretical origins.