Over-Indebtedness Protection and Risk Scale: Construction and Validity Evidence

Abstract

This study aims to present evidence for the validity of the Over-indebtedness Protection and Risk Scale (OPRIS). The instrument was constructed to assess attitudinal aspects (behavioral, cognitive, and affective) that prevent or encourage over-indebtedness, considered a serious social problem. Four hundred and forty-four adults participated in the online version. Exploratory Factor Analysis revealed the presence of two factors: protection against over-indebtedness (13 items) and risk of over-indebtedness (21 items), with good levels of adjustment. Criterion validity showed that both factors differentiated groups in terms of self-perceived stress, financial concern, presence/absence of debt, and consumption profile. OPRIS is considered to have the potential to help formulate public policies aimed at addressing the phenomenon of over-indebtedness.