Translation and Psychometric Evaluation of the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale-Short Form among Sri Lankans

Abstract

The Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale-Short Form (DERS-SF) is a widely used measure to assess six areas of difficulties in emotion regulation. However, the psychometric properties of the scale have not been evaluated in the Sri Lankan population. This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties, specifically the reliability and factor structure of the scale, to establish relevance to Sinhalesespeaking Sri Lankans. Following the translation, data was gathered online from a convenience sample of 101 participants. The DERS-SF showed excellent reliability (Cronbach’s α = .93; Omega Total ωT = .93). A confirmatory factor analysis revealed that a five-factor structure excluding the awareness subscale had be_er fit indices, reflecting cultural differences in how emotion regulation difficulties are conceptualised. This structure appeared more suitable for use in future research and screening for emotion regulation difficulties in the Sri Lankan population. Additionally, high scores of the DERS-SF,particularly among the younger participants compared to the older participants, underscored the need for programs to teach strategies of emotion regulation.