At-any-Point-in-Time, Individual’s Psychological Well-Being Matters: Meta-analysis of Reliability Generalisation of (Ryff's SPWB) as the measure

Abstract

Background: Psychological well-being is not just a static trait but a dynamic construct that can change over time. Given the dynamic nature of psychological well-being, which can fluctuate in response to life events, stressors, and developmental changes, the need for reliable and sensitive measurement tools is paramount. Objective: This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the reliability generalization of Ryff's Scales of Psychological Well-Being (SPWB) as a suitable tool for assessing individual psychological well-being at any point in time. Method: This meta-analysis uses a systematic search method and stringent inclusion criteria to assess the reliability of the Ryff's Scales of Psychological Well-Being (SPWB) in a variety of demographic contexts. To ensure objectivity, this meta-analysis assesses the SPWB utilizing a pre-registered procedure (CRD42024508542). With QUADAS-2 and COSMIN Risk of Bias serving as guiding principles for quality assessment, data from ten research published between 2015 and 2023 were analysed using a common and random-effects model. Knowledge of the psychometric qualities of SPWB is improved by this work. Results: The meta-analysis confirmed the SPWB's high reliability, with both models showing a 0.92 reliability coefficient (95% CI [0.88; 0.95]) and significant statistical support (z = 48.69 and 45.93, p < .05). Minimal study variability (τ²= 0.0002, I² = 0.0%) and a non-significant heterogeneity test (Q = 7.58, df = 9, p = .57). The meta-analysis on SPWB versions SPWB-6 to SPWB-40 showed high reliability, with Cronbach’s alpha from 0.70 to 0.96. Common and random effects models indicated alphas of 0.92 and 0.89, respectively, and low to moderate heterogeneity (I² = 26.7%). The meta-analysis on psychological well-being dimensions showed high consistency, with Cronbach's alphas from 0.68 to 0.70. Overall reliability was strong (z-value 6.04, p < .05), with no heterogeneity (I2 = 0.0%, Q = 0.00, p = 1.00), indicating consistent reliability across dimensions. Conclusion: This meta-analysis reinforces the significance of Ryff's SPWB as a reliable and versatile tool for assessing individual psychological well-being at any point, highlighting its implications for both practice and research.