A preliminary study for a new model of sense of community

Although Sense of Community (SOC) is usually defined as a multidimensional construct, most SOC scales are unidimensional. To reduce the split between theory and empirical research, the present work identifies a multifactor structure for the Italian Sense of Community Scale (ISCS) that has already been validated as a unitary index of SOC. This study was carried out in two steps: (a) a confirmatory factor analysis was conducted of a three-factor structure, and (b) the author tested the predictive validity of the dimensions to confirm its structure. The study results validate the three-factor solution (i.e., Place Attachment, Needs Fulfillment and Influence, and Social Bonds). Therefore, the ISCS is a valid measure of SOC and a base from which to develop a new model for this construct. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.