Religious Problem-Solving Scale [RPSS-36]

Description

The Religious Problem-Solving Scale [RPSS-36] is a self-report instrument designed to assess how individuals use religion and religious beliefs when dealing with problems and difficult situations.

Purpose

The scale examines three main approaches to religious problem-solving:

  • Self-guided approach: relying mainly on personal abilities while viewing religion as a source of support.
  • Collaborative approach: combining personal effort with religious guidance.
  • Passive approach: placing responsibility primarily in God’s hands and waiting for divine intervention.

Scoring

Responses are typically rated on a Likert-type scale, reflecting how frequently different religious problem-solving strategies are used. Scores can be converted into indices representing the individual’s preferred approach.

Applications

The RPSS-36 can be used in psychological and religion-related research to investigate associations between religious coping, decision-making, psychological adjustment, and emotional well-being.

References

Pargament, K. I., Smith, B. W., Koenig, H. G., & Perez, L. (1998). Patterns of positive and negative religious coping with major life stressors. Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion.

Pargament, K. I. (1997). The Psychology of Religion and Coping: Theory, Research, Practice. Guilford Press.

Koenig, H. G., McCullough, M. E., & Larson, D. B. (2001). Handbook of Religion and Health. Oxford University Press.