Ikuo Ishimura

Construction of a New Strengths Identification Scale

The aim of this study was to develop original strengths categories that correspond to Japanese culture, and to construct a strengths identification scale to assess individual strengths. Sixty strength categories were created and a strengths identification scale was constructed. Data were collected from 427 participants. The characteristics of each strength category were identified along five dimensions: direction, duration, range, processing, and action. The distribution of the strength categories by mean ranks is also given. Factor analyses were conducted, and four strength category groups established. From these analyses, reliable and valid strength categories and a strengths identification scale were developed, which will be able to serve as a fundamental framework and support for future research and practice in Japan.

The development of fears of compassion scale Japanese version.

Objectives Cultivation of compassion is a useful way to treat mental problems, but some individuals show resistance. Fears of compassion can be an obstacle for clinicians when providing psychotherapy, and for clients when engaging in interpersonal relationships. Despite its importance, a Japanese version of fears of compassion scales (for others, from others, and for self) has not yet been developed. This study developed a Japanese version of the Fears of Compassion Scales and tested its reliability and validity. Design This study used a cross-sectional design, and a self-report procedure for collecting data. Methods A total of 485 students (121 males and 364 females) answered self-report questionnaires, including the draft Fears of Compassion Scales—Japanese version. Results There were distinctive factor structures for fear of compassion from others, and for self. The fear of compassion from others scale consisted of concern about compassion from others and avoidance of compassion from others. All scales had good internal consistency, test-retest reliability, face validity, and construct validity. Discrimination and difficulty were also calculated. Conclusions These results indicate that the Fears of Compassion Scales—Japanese version is a well-constructed and useful measure to assess fears of compassion and the existence of cultural differences in fears of compassion.

The functional role of resignation orientation on goal engagement, self-esteem, life satisfaction, and depression

Several studies in Europe and North America have highlighted the importance of resignation or giving up. Research has shown that resignation is as important as goal attainment. Hence, this study examines, using path analysis, the effect of resignation orientation on goal disengagement and reengagement. Furthermore, this study attempts to clarify the implication of resignation orientation for elements of mental well-being. Questionnaires were completed by 261 Japanese college students. Results showed that proactive resignation orientation promotes reestablishment of alternative goals while negative resignation orientation encourages disengagement of the unattainable goals. The findings help explain the functional role of resignation orientation and can inform the development of treatment for resignation-related depression.