Development and Validation of the Scale for Understanding Life-Oriented Expression and Dispositions

Abstract

Objective This study developed and validated the Scale for Understanding Life-Oriented Expression and Dispositions (SULEDIS), a self-report tool designed to assess adult dispositional orientations across multiple life domains. The SULEDIS addresses limitations in existing temperament and personality measures by capturing both motivational drives and relational context. Methods Researchers created the SULEDIS through theoretical review, expert consultation, and iterative item refinement. Grounded in a dual-axis framework, the scale evaluates four orientations-health and wellness, relationships, achievement, and meaning-across three domains: self, family and friends, and organization. The instrument includes 96 forced-choice items. Data from 212 adults, including 42 participants retested after 2 weeks, were analyzed for reliability, validity, and factorial structure using Categorical Principal Component Analysis (CATPCA). Results Most SULEDIS subscales showed adequate internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Correlation analyses revealed coherent relationships among subscales, particularly between self and meaning (r=-0.78) and organization and meaning (r=0.79). The scale demonstrated partial convergent validity with traditional personality assessments. CATPCA confirmed consistent three-factor structures across orientation scales. Conclusion The SULEDIS provides a practical and nuanced framework for understanding adult dispositions beyond trait-based models, with promising applications in counseling, education, and personal development.