Factor Structure and Measurement Invariance of the State Shame and Guilt Scale

Objective To examine the factor structure, reliability, validity, and measurement invariance of the Portuguese State Shame and Guilt Scale (SSGS).Method Participants were 286 adults (M age = 36.9; 83% female), including 113 women who experienced pregnancy loss within the past 12 months. In this online study with a 3-week follow-up, participants completed the SSGS and measures of self-compassion, shame, anxiety, depression, and mental health.Results Confirmatory factor analysis supported the three-factor structure (shame, guilt, pride) with acceptable fit. Multi-group analysis supported measurement invariance. The pregnancy loss group reported higher shame (d=.60) and lower pride (d=.67) than the general population, with no guilt differences. Internal consistency (α >.84) and temporal stability (r >.77) were high.Conclusions SSGS scores demonstrated validity evidence for clinical assessment. Counselors can utilize scores to differentiate maladaptive shame from guilt, facilitating tailored interventions, particularly for identifying women at risk of distress following pregnancy loss.