Description

The False Self Scale – Relationships with Other Christians (FSS-R) is a psychometric tool designed to assess the existence and impact of the false self in relationships among Christians. This scale focuses on studying how individuals may present a false self or hide their true feelings and beliefs in order to meet social expectations or maintain social relationships within Christian communities. Its purpose is to examine the effect of these behaviors on personal relationships and emotional well-being.

Purpose

The primary aim of the FSS-R is to identify and measure the extent to which individuals present a false self in their relationships with other Christians. The tool seeks to:
Understand how often and in what ways individuals disguise their true selves in order to belong or be accepted in Christian communities.
Examine the impact of this behavior on interpersonal relationships and mental well-being.
Provide insights for the development of interventions that can strengthen authenticity and honesty in Christian relationships.

Analysis

The analysis of data from the FSS-R involves the use of various statistical methods to evaluate the reliability and validity of the scale. The main methods of analysis include:
Reliability: Cronbach’s alpha is used to estimate the internal consistency of the questionnaire’s scales. A high Cronbach’s alpha indicates good internal consistency.
Factor Analysis: Applied to confirm the construct validity of the scale by identifying the underlying dimensions of the false self.
Correlations: The relationship between the scale’s results and other psychological and social variables—such as emotional well-being and quality of relationships—is examined.

Scoring

The scoring of the FSS-R usually involves a 5-point Likert scale, where participants rate the extent to which they agree with various statements related to the false self in their relationships with other Christians. Scores are calculated based on participants’ responses, with higher scores indicating a greater presence of the false self.

References

Gergen, K. J. (1991). The Saturated Self: Dilemmas of Identity in Contemporary Life. Basic Books.
Horney, K. (1950). Neurosis and Human Growth: The Struggle toward Self-Realization. Norton & Company.
Paloutzian, R. F., & Park, C. L. (2005). Handbook of the Psychology of Religion and Spirituality. Guilford Press.
Harrison, M. (2000). The Role of Religious Communities in Identity Formation. Cambridge University Press.
Winnicott, D. W. (1965). The Maturational Processes and the Facilitating Environment. Hogarth Press.