Research on the Polish short version of the Self-Regulation Scale: a study across adolescents and adults with three independent samples.

BACKGROUND: Self-regulation is the ability to make and execute plans, manage emotions, and control behavior in order to achieve goals. Self-regulatory skills are crucial for proper psychosocial functioning. A higher level of self-regulation skills helps build more supportive relationships and is related to higher psychological well-being. Poor self-regulation is associated with a higher probability of falling into addictions and appears to be the main reason behind a wide range of behavioral problems. PARTICIPANTS AND PROCEDURE: The present study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Polish short version of the Self-Regulation Scale (sSRS) based on the 26-item Self-Regulation Scale. The following validity indicators were used: the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the Positive Orientation Scale, the Satisfaction with Life Scale, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, the General Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire. The study was conducted using a 12-item sSRS with a total of 1,525 participants from three independent studies. RESULTS: The obtained higher-order factor model confirmed the three-factor structure of self-regulation, containing three main aspects: emotional (propensity for impulsivity and intense, negative emotional states), cognitive (ability to make and execute plans), and behavioral (fidgetiness and being in movement, as well as difficulties in focusing and directing attention). Two higher-order factors were added to the behavioral dimension: hyperactivity and behavioral attention. CONCLUSIONS: The results of the exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (EFA, CFA) as well as the obtained values of reliability and validity coefficients indicate satisfactory psychometric properties of the sSRS and its usefulness in further empirical research.