Self-Image Measurement Scale (MSGO-15)

Description

The Self-Image Measurement Scale (MSGO-15) is a psychometric instrument designed to assess different dimensions of self-image and self-perception. The scale examines how individuals perceive themselves, how they would ideally like to be, and how they believe they are perceived by others.

This approach allows for the examination of possible discrepancies between different forms of self-perception and may provide useful information about psychological adjustment and self-esteem.

Purpose

The primary purpose of the MSGO-15 is to investigate the individual’s self-image and compare it with the ideal self and with the image the person believes others hold of them.

More specifically, the scale aims to identify possible discrepancies between the real and ideal self and to explore conflicts or differences that may be associated with psychological distress.

It may also be used to examine relationships among self-perception, perceived external evaluations, self-esteem, and psychological adjustment.

Scale Dimensions

The MSGO-15 assesses three main dimensions of self-image:

Real Self: refers to how individuals perceive themselves in their current state.

Ideal Self: refers to how individuals would like to be or the characteristics they consider ideal for themselves.

Perceived Image in the Eyes of Others: refers to how individuals believe they are perceived or evaluated by other people.

Each of the three dimensions contains 15 scales, each consisting of a pair of conceptually opposite adjectives.

Scoring

Participants are asked to place themselves between the two opposite adjectives in each pair, selecting the point that best represents their self-perception.

According to the provided material, scoring ranges from:

9 = positive adjective

to

1 = negative adjective.

The total score for each dimension is calculated by summing the scores across the 15 adjective pairs.

The theoretical score range is:

15 to 135 points.

Statistical Analysis and Interpretation

A separate total score can be calculated for each of the three dimensions.

Of particular importance is the difference between the Real Self and Ideal Self scores, which represents the discrepancy between the person’s current self-perception and their desired self-image.

A greater discrepancy between the real and ideal self is interpreted as indicating a greater degree of possible psychological distress or dissatisfaction with self-image.

Differences between the real self and the way individuals believe others perceive them may also be examined.

Validity and Reliability

According to the available information, the scale demonstrates good construct validity, supporting its use for assessing different aspects of self-image.

The provided material does not include specific numerical indicators of internal consistency or test-retest reliability. Therefore, more detailed psychometric evaluation would require consultation of the relevant primary studies.

Applications

The MSGO-15 may be used in clinical, counseling, and research settings to investigate self-perception and self-image.

It may be applied to assess discrepancies between the real and ideal self, examine how individuals believe they are perceived by others, and explore possible relationships with self-esteem and psychological adjustment.

In research settings, the scale may also be used to investigate associations between self-image and other variables, including psychological symptomatology and difficulties in interpersonal relationships.

References

Miskimins RW, Wilson LT. Self-concept and psychiatric symptomatology. Journal of Clinical Psychology. 1979;29:27–29.

Chatz E. A New Therapeutic Proposal for Communication Between Spouses Experiencing Marital Problems. Doctoral dissertation. Department of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki; 1995.