Short Versions of Tolerance of Surroundings Scale and Autonomy Scale Based on Orientation toward Inclusive Societies
This study developed and validated shortened versions of the Tolerance of Surroundings Scale (8 items) and the Autonomy Scale (9 or 12 items) using data from 2,526 Japanese participants, confirming their acceptable psychometric properties for efficient use in large-scale surveys and routine assessments where prioritizing efficiency over precision is necessary.
Original paper licensed under CC BY 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). This is an AI-generated explanation of the paper below. It is not written or endorsed by the authors. For technical accuracy, refer to the original paper. Read full disclaimer
Imagine you have two giant, super-detailed backpacks for measuring how people feel about their world. One backpack is the Tolerance of Surroundings Scale (TSS), and the other is the Autonomy Scale (AS). These backpacks are famous and trusted, but they are heavy! Together, they hold 40 items (questions), which makes them too bulky to carry around for big group surveys or quick check-ins in schools, hospitals, or offices.
So, the researchers asked: Can we shrink these backpacks without losing the important stuff inside?
They went on a quest to build "lightweight" versions. First, they tested their ideas on old data, and then they put them to the ultimate test with a fresh group of 2,526 Japanese participants in an online survey.
Here is what they found:
The TSS Backpack: The 8-Item Slim-Down
For the Tolerance scale, they successfully carved it down to a sleek 8-item version. Think of this like taking a heavy winter coat and turning it into a stylish, lightweight jacket. The tests showed this smaller version still holds its shape well (structural validity), connects to happiness in the right ways (construct validity), and gives consistent answers (reliability). It's ready to go!
The AS Backpack: The Fork in the Road
The Autonomy scale was a bit trickier. Instead of just one "best" version, the researchers found two different lightweight options, and which one you pick depends on what you need:
- The 12-item version: This one keeps all three of the original theoretical "pockets" (domains) intact. It's like a slightly smaller backpack that still has every single compartment you originally had.
- The 9-item version: This one is even lighter but focuses only on the two core pockets. It's like a minimalist daypack that drops the extra compartments to focus on the essentials.
Both versions passed the tests for structure, connection to well-being, and reliability. However, the paper notes that the "best" choice isn't a magic winner; it depends entirely on your specific goal. If you need every single detail, grab the 12-item one. If you need speed and just the core concepts, the 9-item one might be your friend.
The Bottom Line
The paper concludes that these new, shorter versions are acceptable for situations where efficiency (speed and ease) is more important than maximum precision. They aren't a perfect replacement for the giant 40-item originals in every single scenario, but they are solid, reliable tools for the right job. Just like choosing between a full-size suitcase and a carry-on, the key is picking the right size for the trip you're taking.
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