Development and validation of the Pursuit of Happiness Scale

Abstract

The present study reports the development and validation of a 31-item measure that examines strategies employed by people to increase their happiness levels. The items of this new ‘Pursuit of Happiness Scale’ (an English and a Hindi version) were developed by integrating top-down and bottom-up approaches. The scale development was based on a pilot study (N=401) and a main study (N=1795). Five happiness increasing strategies were derived through exploratory factor analysis, viz., (a) Pursuing a Positive Outlook, (b) Pursuing Goals, (c) Pursuing Faith, (d) Pursuing Emotional Stability, and (e) Pursuing a Healthy Life. The results of confirmatory factor analysis indicated a good model fit for the five-factor structure, and the new measure also showed good reliability and validity. The Pursuit of Happiness Scale can help scholars and policymakers gain meaningful insights into the wellbeing landscape of the country. Such knowledge can inform the development of policies, interventions, and theoretical models to address and promote the happiness of Indians. Besides, at a more micro-level, such an understanding can help individuals engage more proactively in practices that may enhance their mood and overall wellbeing.