Description

Mental Health

Background:

The PSOMS was included based on findings that positive states of mind have been shown associated with better general perceptions of health [15]. This measure is designed to detect subtle changes in the ability to achieve and appreciate positive experiences. It provides a discrete measure of seven specific states (including focused attention, productivity, sharing, responsible caretaking, restful repose, sensuous nonsexual and sexual pleasure) as a summation of the individual’s ability to achieve each of these positive states of mind within the last 7 days. The response categories used to rate each state range from 0 to 3 where 0 represents an inability to achieve the state and 3 represents full attainment. Cronbach’s alpha has been reported at 0.65 in a university sample

Developers:

N.E. Adler

References:

Adler N.E., Horowitz, M., Garcia, A., Moyer, A.: Additional validation of a scale to assess positive states of mind. Psychosomatic Medicine 1998, 60:26-32.