# Psychometric Properties of the Spanish Version of the VIA-72 Strengths Inventory

## TL;DR

This study evaluates the Spanish version of a shortened character strengths inventory, confirming its reliability and validity for Spanish-speaking populations.

## Contribution

The study provides psychometric validation of the Spanish VIA-72, supporting its use as a concise and valid tool for assessing character strengths.

## Key findings

- The three-factor model (Caring, Self-Control, Inquisitiveness) showed the best fit and conceptual clarity.
- Internal consistency was high and comparable to prior studies.
- Convergent validity was supported through correlations with conscientiousness.

## Abstract

The Values in Action Inventory (VIA) is one of the most widely used measures for assessing character strengths. While the original version includes 240 items, shorter versions such as the VIA-72 have been developed to enhance its applicability. Psychometric studies of the VIA-72 in Spanish are still limited. This study examined the factorial structure, reliability, and convergent validity of the Spanish VIA-72 in a sample of 470 adults. Three alternative models—comprising three, five, and six factors—were tested using confirmatory factor analysis. All models showed acceptable fit, but the three-factor solution—Caring, Self-Control, and Inquisitiveness—showed the best performance in terms of parsimony, fit indices, and conceptual clarity. Internal consistency for the three-factor model was high across dimensions and comparable to previous studies. Convergent validity was supported through meaningful correlations with personality traits, particularly with conscientiousness. The factorial structure largely replicated findings obtained with both VIA-72 and VIA-240. These results support the Spanish VIA-72 as a reliable and valid instrument for assessing character strengths, offering a concise, theory-based alternative for Spanish-speaking populations.