Hebrew Self-Transcendence: Translation and Validation for Family Caregivers of People with Dementia

TL;DR

This study translated and validated a tool to measure self-transcendence in Hebrew-speaking caregivers of dementia patients, showing it is reliable and linked to lower caregiver burden.

Contribution

The Hebrew version of the Self-Transcendence Scale is validated for use with dementia caregivers, offering a culturally adapted psychometric tool.

Findings

The Hebrew STS has a four-factor structure aligned with Reed’s theoretical framework.

Higher self-transcendence scores correlate with lower caregiver burden (r = –.34, p < .001).

The Temporal dimension is a key factor reflecting caregivers’ integration of time-based experiences.

Abstract

While family caregivers of individuals with advanced dementia often experience high levels of emotional and physical burden, less attention has been given to their sources of resilience and well-being. Tools like the Self-Transcendence Scale (STS) can help assess these positive dimensions, but culturally adapted versions are needed.

To translate and culturally adapt the STS into Hebrew and evaluate its psychometric properties among family caregivers of nursing home residents with moderate-to-severe dementia.

A sample of 175 Hebrew-speaking caregivers completed the STS. The scale underwent translation and cultural adaptation, followed by exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses.

Factor analyses revealed a four-factor structure: Intrapersonal, Interpersonal, Transpersonal, and Temporal, aligned with Reed’s theoretical framework. Convergent validity was demonstrated, with higher ST scores significantly associated with lower caregiver burden (r = –.34, p < .001). Internal consistency was acceptable (Cronbach’s alpha = .72). The Temporal dimension emerged as a key contributor, reflecting caregivers’ integration of past, present, and future experiences.

The Hebrew STS is a valid and reliable tool for assessing self-transcendence among family caregivers. It offers new insights into their psychological adaptation and may support future cross-cultural research and intervention development.