Adaptation and Psychometric Validation of Mental Health Literacy and Well-Being Scales among Filipino College Students

Mark Allan C.  Mananggit; Ungsinun Intarakamhang; Kanu Priya  Mohan

Authors

Mark Allan C. Mananggit Behavioral Science Research Institute/Central Luzon State University
Ungsinun Intarakamhang Behavioral Science Research Institute, Srinakharinwirot University https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7558-0394
Kanu Priya Mohan Behavioral Science Research Institute, Srinakharinwirot University

Keywords:

Mental health literacy, Psychological well-being, Filipino college students, SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 4: Quality Education

Abstract

Background: The high prevalence of mental health problems among Filipino college students and the lack of culturally validated assessment tools highlight the need for reliable and valid measurement instruments. Objective: This study culturally adapted and evaluated the psychometric properties of the Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS) and the Psychological Well-Being Scale (PWBS) among Filipino college students. Methods: A total of 1828 students were recruited and randomly split into two equal subsamples for exploratory factor analysis (EFA; n= 914) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA; n =914). The cross-cultural adaptation process involved translation/back-translation, content validation using Lawshe’s content validity ratio (CVR), and comprehensibility assessment. Construct validity, convergent validity, and internal consistency were evaluated. Results: Results demonstrated that a 12-item, 4-factor model of the MHLS exhibited adequate fit (χ²/df = 2.84, RMSEA = 0.046, CFI = 0.99, SRMR = 0.036) and high reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.82). Similarly, a 12-item, 6-factor version of the PWBS demonstrated good fit (χ²/df = 2.07, RMSEA = 0.035, CFI = 0.98, SRMR = 0.026) and strong internal consistency (α = 0.91). Structural equation modeling revealed that mental health literacy significantly predicted psychological well-being (β = 0.79, p < .001). Conclusion: These validated 12-item scales provide concise, reliable, and culturally appropriate tools for mental health screening and intervention evaluation in Philippine higher education settings.

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