Convergent and Discriminant Validation of a Measure of Social Self-Concept

Abstract

This investigation examined the convergent and discriminant validity of a measure of social self-concept based on the heirarchical-multifaceted model of self-concept proposed by Shavelson, Hubner, and Stanton (1976). Subjects were 364 college students who completed measures of general, academic, social self-concept, social anxiety, and social desirability. A series of hypothesized relationships, consistent with the Shavelson et al. formulation, were generated; these assessed the convergent and discriminant validity of the social self-concept measure. The Social Self-Concept Scale (SSCS)⊃1⊃ was found to be a highly reliable measure (internal consistency reliability = .95). Furthermore, bivariate and multivariate analyses indicated substantial support for the validity of this scale and the utility of the heirarchical-multifaceted model of self-concept proposed by Shavelson et al. We discuss the theoretical and clinical utility of differentiating components of self-concept.