How Much Is It Weighing on You? Development and Validation of the Secrecy Burden Scale

TitleHow Much Is It Weighing on You? Development and Validation of the Secrecy Burden Scale
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2023
AuthorsBedrov A, Gable SL
JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin
Pagination01461672231172387
Abstract

Keeping a secret is often considered burdensome, with numerous consequences for well-being. However, there is no standardized measure of secrecy burden, and most studies focus on individual/cognitive burden without considering social/relational aspects. This research aimed to develop and validate a secrecy burden measure tapping both intrapersonal and interpersonal components. Study 1 used exploratory factor analysis to reveal a four-factor model of secrecy burden: Daily Personal Impact, Relationship Impact, Pull to Reveal, and Anticipated Consequences. Study 2 used confirmatory factor analysis to replicate this factor structure and found that each factor was uniquely associated with different emotional and well-being outcomes. Study 3 employed a longitudinal design and found that higher scores on each factor predicted lower authenticity and higher depression and anxiety 2 to 3 weeks later. Altogether, this research is the first step in standardizing a secrecy burden measure and applying it to real-world secrets and well-being outcomes.

URLhttps://doi.org/10.1177/01461672231172387
DOI10.1177/01461672231172387
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