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Using social networks (SNs) inappropriately can lead to psychological problems. The objective of this study was to develop a new measuring instrument of problematic use of SNs. The sample comprised 1003 participants over 18 years old (M = 42.33; SD = 14.32). Exploratory factor analysis was performed with a randomly selected 30% of the sample, and confirmatory factor analysis with the remaining 70%. The reliability of the instrument was estimated, and evidence of validity in relation to the variables—anxiety, depression and satisfaction with life—was obtained. The new scale demonstrated a two-dimensional structure (GFI =0.99; RMSEA= 0.06), with one factor of negative social comparison (α = 0.94) and another of addictive consequences (α = 0.91). Clear evidence of validity related to other variables was found. The new scale demonstrated good psychometric properties. The advantage of this questionnaire is that it assesses not only excessive use but also social comparison through SNs.

Likert items are often used in social and health sciences. However, the format is strongly affected by acquiescence and reversed items have traditionally been used to control this response bias, a controversial practice. This paper aims to examine how reversed items affect the psychometric properties of a scale. Different versions of the Grit-s scale were applied to an adult sample (N = 1,419). The versions of the scale had either all items in positive or negative forms, or a mix of positive and negative items. The psychometric properties of the different versions (item analysis, dimensionality and reliability) were analyzed. Both negative and positive versions demonstrated better functioning than mixed versions. However, the mean total scores did not vary, which is an example of how similar means could mask other significant differences. Therefore, we advise against using mixed scales, and consider the use of positive or negative versions preferable.

Grit, defined as passion and perseverance for long-term goals, has received much attention over the last decade. However, its dimensionality is still very much up for debate. The present study examines whether the bidimensional structure of the construct is a statistical artifact caused by item reversal. The sample consisted of 1,115 participants ( Myears = 38.92; SD = 15.08), of whom 67.3% were women. Several confirmatory models were specified with different versions of two grit scales. A bifactor model with a grit-general factor and two method-specific factors (one direct items, the other reversed items) demonstrated better fit according to all indicators (Original Grit-S: CFI = .995, RMSEA = .024; Mixed Grit-S: CFI = .966, RMSEA = .068; Mixed EGO: CFI = .985, RMSEA = .051) than a bifactor model with a grit-general factor and two theoretical factors (perseverance of effort and consistency of interests, Original Grit-S: CFI = .933, RMSEA = .085; Mixed Grit-S: CFI = .944, RMSEA = .088; Mixed EGO: CFI = .982, RMSEA = .056). Grit is a unidimensional construct, and the two dimensions identified in previous studies (consistency of interests and perseverance of effort) were the result of a statistical artifact due to item reversal. In addition, redirecting the items modified the factor structure of the Grit-S scale. The practical implications of the study are discussed.