From traits to states: An adaptation of the Selflessness/Self-centeredness Inventory to daily experiences

Conceptualized as distinct psychological functionings respectively linked to authentic-durable and fluctuating happiness, selflessness and self-centeredness have recently been the subject of an instrument development to evaluate their manifestations at the trait level. Along the lines of this work, the goal of the current research was to adapt the psychometric instrument at the state level: the Selflessness/Self-centeredness Inventory – State (SSI-S). Consistent with the trait version, both exploratory analysis (Study 1, N = 853) and confirmatory analysis (Study 2, N = 265) indicated that the SSI-S measured seven factors organized into two latent variables (i.e. selflessness divided into four components, self-centeredness divided into three dimensions). Study of validity and correlational analysis (Study 3, N = 1409) indicated that selflessness and self-centeredness were two distinct constructs, differently associated with mental health, interpersonal health, and pro-environmental outcomes.