This scoping review mapped psychometric evidence for the Compassion Scale (CS), a self-report measure of compassion for others, across cultures and populations where it has been validated, analyzing 7 studies using PRISMA-COSMIN-ITC guidelines and COSMIN risk-of-bias assessment.
Across 7 studies (mostly adult samples; only 2 included adolescents), the bifactor and hierarchical four-factor models showed the best structural fit, though neither replicated consistently across cultural adaptations. The general factor showed good-to-excellent internal consistency; subscale reliability ranged from low to good. Convergent and discriminant validity were supported. Measurement invariance was established only for gender and behavioral profiles in adolescents.
Only 7 studies were included, limiting generalizability. Measurement invariance was tested in adolescents only, leaving adult cross-cultural equivalence unconfirmed. Most validation evidence comes from a narrow range of populations, with underrepresented groups still lacking data.
The CS is adequate as a brief total-score measure of compassion, but subscale scores from bifactor solutions should not yet be used clinically. Clinicians and researchers should await validation in broader, more diverse populations before applying subscale-level interpretations.
Explore related topics
