Development of the Voluntary Simplicity Engagement Scale: Measuring Low-Consumption Lifestyles

S. A. Rich (), B. J. Wright () and P. C. Bennett ()
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S. A. Rich: La Trobe University
B. J. Wright: La Trobe University
P. C. Bennett: La Trobe University

Journal of Consumer Policy, 2020, vol. 43, issue 2, No 4, 295-313

Abstract: Abstract Those who choose to reduce their material consumption to seek satisfaction in non-material ways are said to be living a life of voluntary simplicity. This lifestyle has potentially important implications for both environmental sustainability and individual well-being. In research, voluntary simplifiers are typically identified informally or by using measurement tools that may not reflect current simplifying practices. The aim of the current work was to develop a measure of voluntary simplicity based on the practices of contemporary simplifiers. Using a mixed-methods approach, qualitative interviews with 16 self-identified voluntary simplifiers were used to develop a questionnaire that was then administered to a sample of 423 participants. The questionnaire was refined statistically, resulting in the development of the 21-item Voluntary Simplicity Engagement Scale. The scale displays sound psychometric qualities and, with additional validation, should serve as a useful addition to the study of voluntary simplicity.

Keywords: Low-consumption lifestyles; Voluntary simplicity; Scale development; Mixed methods; Measurement (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (8)

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DOI: 10.1007/s10603-018-9400-5

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