Development of Positive Mental Health Measurement for Gender-Diverse Students in Thailand

Abstract

Gender-diverse students experience elevated rates of anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, and self-harm compared to their heterosexual peers. This study aims to develop a Positive Mental Health Measurement for gender-diverse students in Thailand. Employing a mixed methods research approach, specifically utilizing an exploratory sequential research design, the study began with a qualitative phase to explore the dimensions and meaning of positive mental health through in-depth interviews with 10 participants. Subsequently, a quantitative phase involved a second-order confirmatory factor analysis. The sample comprised 800 participants, divided equally between the exploratory factor analysis (EFA = 400) and second-order confirmatory factor analysis (CFA = 400). The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for the scale was calculated as 0.927, indicating high internal consistency reliability. Results identified seven key components of positive mental health: 1) self-acceptance, 2) prosocial behavior, 3) interpersonal relationships, 4) autonomy, 5) coping ability, 6) self-esteem, and 7) problem-solving. The second-order confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the structure of the positive mental health model, with fit indices meeting standard thresholds (χ2 = 278.40, p = 0.076, GFI = 0.95, AGFI = 0.92, CFI = 1.00, SRMR = 0.04, RMR = 0.04, RMSEA = 0.01, NFI = 0.99). Standardized loadings of the seven factors onto the higher-order factor were robust, ranging from 0.70 to 0.96. The implication of this study underscores the importance of employing positive mental health measurement to proactively address mental health challenges among undergraduate students with diverse sexual orientations.