Invariance and Network Analysis of the High Five Inventory (HFI) in Ecuadorian University Students
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This study focuses on the assessment of positive personality traits through the High Five Inventory (HFI) among Ecuadorian university students. The instrument is based on the High Factors Model (HFM), which includes five dimensions: erudition, peace, joviality, honesty, and tenacity. Objective: To validate the factorial structure, reliability, and convergent and discriminant validity of the HFI in Ecuador; to analyze its invariance across three cities (Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca) and academic disciplines; and to conduct a network analysis to explore inter-item relationships. Method: A total of 1,555 students participated. The HFI was linguistically adapted, and statistical analyses were applied, including Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), reliability estimates (α and ω), Average Variance Extracted (AVE), and factorial invariance tests (from configural to structural levels). Results: The HFI demonstrated strong internal consistency (α and ω > 0.80), sound structural validity (CFI > 0.99; RMSEA = 0.031), and evidence of invariance at configural, metric, and scalar levels. Network analysis revealed differences between cities in terms of attribute centrality and clustering, with traits such as dedication and ingenuity standing out. Conclusion: The HFI is a psychometrically robust tool for evaluating positive personality traits in Ecuadorian university students, with applications in both educational and psychological contexts. Further cross-cultural research is encouraged.