Validation and adaptation of the moral outrage scale in the Peruvian adult population

Abstract

Abstract Background Moral outrage (MO) is an emotional experience that arises in situations where a moral standard is violated. Despite its relevance, there are few psychometric studies in the Latin American context, characterized by inequality and social problems. This highlights the need for specific assessment instruments for this construct. The purpose of this study was to analyze the psychometric properties of an MO scale in the Peruvian population. Methods The sample consisted of 881 Peruvians (57.2% women, Mage = 24.5 years, SD = 9.07 years). The moral outrage scale was administered to participants. To analyze the data, two models were tested: a structural equation model (SEM) and an exploratory structural equation model (ESEM). Results The CFA confirmed a two-factor model (emotional and cognitive), with satisfactory fit indices and standardized factor loadings greater than 0.70. The ESEM model also showed improved fit indices. Measurement invariance across sex was established, and convergent validity was demonstrated between the dimensions of MO and authoritarianism, as well as other sociodemographic variables such as sex, age, and socioeconomic level. Conclusions The MO scale tested in this study is a reliable, valid, and invariant instrument, suitable for assessing moral outrage in both men and women within the Peruvian context.

Keywords

• Moral outrage
• Psychometric properties
• Moral emotions
• Validity
• Reliability
• Measurement invariance