A factor analytic study of the Boredom Proneness Scale (BPS)

Objective: Boredom is an emotion characterized of lack of pleasure and aims. Existing data support the validity of the Boredom Proneness Scale (BPS) as an index of boredom proneness. The factor structure of the instrument has been widely examined and yielding inconsistent and contradictory results. Aims: What is needed is empirical confirmation of the possibility that the BPS captures several facets of boredom attitude. To this end, the current study examined the factor structure of the scale within a nonclinical sample. Method: We administered the BPS to 312 Italian students (39.7% male and 60.3% female), ranging in age from 18 to 43 years (M = 20.96, SD = 3.55), attending several academic programs. In order to determine the dimensional structure underlying the questionnaire, both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed. Cronbach's coefficient alpha was used to estimate internal consistency reliability. Results: Exploratory factor analysis revealed a three-factor solution: Internal Stimulation-Creativity, Apathy, and External Stimulation-Challenge. Goodness of fit indices confirmed the adequacy of the tested models. Alpha coefficients were acceptable for all the three scales. Conclusions: Results provide support for the unidimensionality of the three facet scales for the BPS. Limitations and need for further investigations are discussed. © 2013 Giovanni Fioriti Editore s.r.l.