Psychometric Testing of the Modified Reminiscence Functions Scale

Background and Purpose: The Modified Reminiscence Functions Scale (MRFS) measures the patterns and functions of reminiscence. The purpose of this study was to examine the factor structure of the MRFS in a sample of community-dwelling Black adults. Methods: A convenience sample (N = 335) of Black adults from the Northeast completed the 39-item MRFS. Seven- and 8-factor models were evaluated given the uncertainty regarding the number of factors in previous reminiscence research. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis established validity of the 7-factor model (relative chi-square [chi(2)/df] = 1.9, Tucker-Lewis index [TLI] = .919, comparative fit index [CFI] = .929, root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = .05). Reliability of the subscales ranged from .64 to .90. Conclusions: The MRFS is a reliable and valid measure of reminiscence patterns and functions in Black adults with similar characteristics.