Validation of the French and English Versions of the Need Crafting Scale Among Emerging Adults From France and Canada

Need crafting refers to intentional and self-initiated attempts that individuals undertake to foster their own sense of autonomy, competence, and relatedness. This study assessed the psychometric properties of the English version and of the French adaptation of the Need Crafting Scale (NCS) among emerging adults. One sample from France (Sample 1: N = 1,304, M age = 18.37, SD age = 1.00, 59% female) and two samples from Canada (Sample 2: N = 750, M age = 24.59, SD age = 2.96, 64% female; Sample 3: N = 800, M = 24.78, SD = 2.82, 63% female) completed a paper (Sample 1) or online (Samples 2 and 3) questionnaire. Confirmatory factor analyses supported the factor validity (i.e., model fit and factor loadings) and composite reliability (i.e., omega coefficient) of the first-order (six correlated-factors) and hierarchical (three second-order and one third-order factors) structures underpinning NCS scores. The measurement invariance of all components of these factor models was also partially supported across countries and languages for the first-order and second-order structures, and fully supported for the third-order structure. Criterion-related validity was evidenced by positive correlations with mindfulness, need satisfaction, and well-being, and negative correlations with depression symptoms. These findings provide robust evidence of the validity and reliability of English and French NCS scores among younger populations. This scale will help generate further research on the factors that promote positive psychological health among emerging adults.