Psychometric Evaluation of the Positive Emotion Assessment of Contentment Experience (PEACE) Scale in University staff

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 PhD student, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran

10.22055/jiops.2026.50795.1529
Abstract
Introduction
Contentment, as a positive, enduring, and self-sustaining emotional state, occupies a central position in philosophical, mystical, and religious traditions, often regarded as a foundation of psychological well-being and moral balance. Despite extensive theoretical and empirical exploration, the accurate and culturally sensitive assessment of contentment remains methodologically challenging. Therefore, validating a psychometrically robust Persian version of an established measure is essential for advancing research in positive psychology, well-being, and organizational behavior. The present study aimed to examine the factorial structure, reliability, and convergent validity of the Persian adaptation of the Positive Emotion of Contentment Scale (Cordaro et al., 2021) among non-academic staff at Mohaghegh Ardabili University.

Method
The statistical population consisted of all non-academic staff at Mohaghegh Ardabili University (N = 600). Using convenience sampling, 318 participants voluntarily completed the Persian version of the Positive Emotion of Contentment Scale along with the short form of the NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Data analysis was performed with SPSS version 27 and AMOS version 24, applying exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, Pearson correlation coefficients, and reliability tests including Cronbach’s alpha, McDonald’s omega, and test–retest methods.

Results
Exploratory factor analysis supported a single-factor solution explaining 53% of the total variance. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated a good model fit (χ²/df = 1.29; GFI = 0.95; AGFI = 0.94; IFI = 0.92; TLI = 0.91; CFI = 0.92; RMSEA = 0.02). Correlation analyses showed significant positive relationships with extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and openness, and a negative correlation with neuroticism (p < 0.05). Moreover, contentment was negatively correlated with depression, anxiety, and stress. Reliability indices were satisfactory (α = 0.81, ω = 0.80, test–retest = 0.76).

Discussion
Overall, the Persian version of the Positive Emotion of Contentment Scale demonstrates solid psychometric properties, offering a reliable and valid instrument for assessing contentment in psychological and organizational research contexts.

Keywords


Volume 13, Issue 1
July 2026
Pages 22-38

  • Receive Date 08 October 2025
  • Revise Date 23 December 2025
  • Accept Date 08 January 2026