On the nature of self-monitoring: construct explication with Q-sort ratings

J Pers Soc Psychol. 1996 Oct;71(4):763-76. doi: 10.1037//0022-3514.71.4.763.

Abstract

To explicate M. Snyder's (1987) construct of self-monitoring (SM), a new Q-sort prototype is introduced. Analyses of Q-sorts by both observers and self demonstrated cross-method convergent validity for the revised 18-item Self-Monitoring Scale (SMS-R) and its Public Performing subscale; however, neither scale showed discriminant validity against measures of extraversion. The Other-Directedness items remaining on the SMS-R correlated neither with the other measures of SM nor with extraversion. These findings suggest that the scale revision led to a conceptual shift toward extraverted (and away from other-directed) features of self-presentation. To adequately assess the conceptual domain of SM phenomena, researchers should administer the original 25-item SMS (not the abbreviated 18-item SMS-R) and score Public Performing and Other-Directedness separately to examine their individual and joint effects.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Awareness*
  • Extraversion, Psychological
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Individuality
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Personality Development
  • Q-Sort*
  • Self Concept*
  • Social Behavior*
  • Social Environment