PERMA-Profiler as a multidimensional measure of well-being in a French context

Abstract

Abstract Subjective well-being is a central component of physical and mental health and is increasingly recognized as a key indicator of quality of life. Despite the widespread use of the PERMA framework, no validated French version of the PERMA-Profiler is currently available. The aim of this study was to translate and culturally adapt the PERMA-Profiler into French and to examine its psychometric properties in a large sample of adults. A total of 612 French-speaking adults completed the French version of the PERMA-Profiler as well as measures of flourishing, anxiety and depression. The sample was randomly divided into two independent subsamples to conduct exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The EFA suggested a parsimonious three-factor solution, while comparative model tests confirmed the theoretical five-factor structure of the PERMA model. The CFA conducted on an independent subsample strongly confirmed a correlated five-factor model, as well as a second-order hierarchical model reflecting a general well-being factor. The PERMA-Profiler demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency for most dimensions and for the total score, although the “engagement” dimension showed lower reliability, which is consistent with previous validation studies. Test–retest analyses indicated good temporal stability for the total score and most subscales. Convergent validity was confirmed by strong positive associations with flourishing and perceived happiness. Discriminant validity was evidenced by weaker associations with anxiety, depression, loneliness and negative emotions than with flourishing, although some correlations with HADS anxiety and depression scores reached moderate to strong magnitude. Overall, the French version of the PERMA-Profiler has robust psychometric properties and supports the multidimensional structure of psychological well-being proposed by the PERMA framework. This instrument is a reliable and theoretically grounded tool for assessing the well-being of French-speaking adult population, while highlighting the distinct psychometric behavior of the Engagement dimension.