The Pacific Identity and Wellbeing Scale-Revised (PIWBS-R)

Abstract

We develop and validate a revised version of the Pacific Identity and Wellbeing Scale (the PIWBS-R). This revision extends the original 5-factor PIWBS model to include a sixth subscale assessing Cultural Efficacy (CE). The definition and item content for CE was based on a synthesis of research on self-efficacy and Pacific cultural capital. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (N = 919) supported the revised 6-factor PIWBS-R model. Validation analyses using a sample subset indicated that the PIWBS-R subscales predicted distinct criterion outcomes (Ns = 452-522). CE uniquely predicted self-reported Church Attendance, travel to the Pacific Islands, confidence in speaking Pacific heritage language, and satisfaction with health. Critically, Pacific Connectedness and Belonging and Perceived Societal Wellbeing predicted a lower likelihood of having been diagnosed with diabetes. These findings highlight the potential of the PIWBS-R model for research assessing the protective function of certain aspects of Pacific identity on health-related outcomes. A copy of the PIWBS-R, scale psychometrics, and construct definitions are provided.