Are You Ready to Have Fun? The Spanish State Form of the State–Trait–Cheerfulness Inventory

Abstract

Although cheerfulness, seriousness, and bad mood as traits have been widely studied as the basis of sense of humor, data are scarce regarding the same dimensions as states. In this study, we adapted the state form of the State-Trait-Cheerfulness Inventory (STCI-S) into Spanish. At the same time, we empirically tested new predictions. We assessed 5 independent samples accounting for 1,029 participants (647 women) with ages ranging from 18 to 78 years. We confirmed the 3-dimensional structure as well as a strong measurement invariance between men and women. The internal consistency of the scale was satisfactory, the expected intercorrelations emerged, and the convergence between states and traits was corroborated. We also confirmed that the STCI-S's items were sensitive to affective changes in the environment. A longitudinal stability study of the state-trait dimensions using latent state-trait (LST) models revealed that all three trait measures capture mostly stable interindividual differences, with occasion-specific effects mainly in the state dimensions. Finally, we found that the STCI-S dimensions were related to state well-being. The results suggest that the STCI-S is a valid option for measuring the state basis of sense of humor in the Spanish population.

The Italian Version of the State-Trait Cheerfulness Inventory Trait Form: Psychometric Validation and Evaluation of Measurement Invariance

“…Specifically, Hofmann and colleagues (2018) tested six different models and the three-factor model showed superior fit compared with the two- and one-factor models. Moreover, the three-factor structure has been supported and well-replicated in previous work in self-report state forms (e.g., López-Benítez, Acosta, Lupiáñez, & Carretero-Dios, 2017; Ruch et al, 1997), trait forms (e.g., Carretero-Dios et al, 2014; G. Chen, Ruch, & Li, 2016; Ruch et al, 1996), and peer-report or couple versions (e.g., (Ruch et al, 1996; Tapia-Villanueva, Pereira, & Molina, 2014).…”

“…Previous findings suggested trait seriousness showed negative correlations with indicators of well-being (e.g., happiness and sociability) and positive correlations with indicators of distress (e.g., depression and anxiety; Carretero-Dios et al, 2014). Similarly, state seriousness was positively correlated with state measures of distress, including negative affect, anger feelings, dysthymia, and anxiety (Lopez-Benitez et al, 2017). In the present sample, trait seriousness was positively associated with resilience.…”

“…Chen, Ruch, & Li, 2016; Ruch et al, 1996), and peer-report or couple versions (e.g., (Ruch et al, 1996; Tapia-Villanueva, Pereira, & Molina, 2014). Moreover, Lopez-Benitez et al (2017) found evidence for configural, metric, and scalar invariance across men and women for the state version of the STCI. Empirical studies have validated convergent and discriminant validity for these different forms in measuring cheerfulness, seriousness, and bad mood using multitrait multimethod approaches for sources of individual differences (Carretero-Dios, Eid, & Ruch, 2011).…”

“…Beyond the theoretical model and measurement properties, research has consistently indicated the importance of cheerfulness, as a mood state and personality trait, in predicting psychological well-being, positive affect, positive emotional regulation and management, and personal resilience (Lopez-Benitez, Acosta, Lupianez, & Carretero-Dios, 2017, 2018; Ruch & Hofmann, 2012; Ruch & Kohler, 1999). Specifically, Lopez-Benitez and colleagues (2018) found that high trait cheerfulness individuals reported greater affective state changes than low trait cheerful individuals for both positive and negative affective induction, which the authors postulated that trait cheerfulness is linked with greater permeability to the affective environment.…”

What is the temperamental basis of humour like in China? A cross‐national examination and validation of the standard version of the state–trait cheerfulness inventory

“…Traits cheerfulness and seriousness were both positively associated with measures of well-being in China. Comparatively, previous findings suggested seriousness showed negative associations with indicators of well-being (Carretero-Dios et al, 2014;López-Benítez, Acosta, Lupiáñez, & Carretero-Dios, 2017). Early Chinese philosophies described Confucius as respectful and showed tasteful, good-natured humour while retaining a serious attitude for life (Yue, 2018).…”