The self-ambivalence measure: A psychometric investigation

The purpose of this study was to assess the psychometric properties of the Self-Ambivalence Measure and its subscales developed by Bhar and Kyrios. The factor structure, reliability, and validity of the measure were examined utilising a non-clinical sample of 415 participants who completed self-report measures of aspects of the self. Results indicated that the Self-Ambivalence Measure exhibited levels of internal consistency and convergent and divergent validity, warranting its use in further research. In contrast to earlier research finding a two-factor structure, a three-factor structure was found to best fit the current sample and the factors were labelled Self-Worth Ambivalence, Moral Ambivalence, and Public Self-consciousness. This solution separated internal aspects of self-ambivalence from social aspects which were conceptualised as an aspect of lovability. A discussion of implications is provided.