Psychometric properties of a German-language scale to assess sport satisfaction

Abstract

This study presents and psychometrically evaluates a German-language 5-item scale designed to assess satisfaction with practising a sport: the Sport Satisfaction Scale (SSS; Sportzufriedenheitsskala, SZS). It is an adaptation of an existing instrument measuring domain-specific self-satisfaction to the sport context. We analysed the dimensionality of the scale, assessed its internal consistency, tested measurement invariance across a range of demographic and sport-related variables, and explored associations with related psychological constructs and external criteria. The sample comprised 285 young adults (M_age = 23.06 years, SD = 3.49; 43.9% female, 55.8% male, 0.4% other). The analyses supported the hypothesised one-factor structure of the SSS and revealed satisfactory internal consistency (ω = .80). Measurement invariance analyses provided evidence for weak, (partial) strong, and (partial) strict invariance across gender, participation in organised sport, and participation in competitive sport. There was no indication of monotonic differential item functioning with respect to age and weekly training volume. Finally, the findings aligned with theoretical expectations in that sport satisfaction correlated positively with several dimensions of passion, physical self-concept, and athletic identity. In conclusion, the SSS demonstrates sound psychometric properties, supporting its use as an economic and valid research tool in sport and exercise settings.