Abstract
Objective of the present study was to adapt the Reminiscence Functions Scale (RFS) in Bangla to be used in the context of Bangladeshi culture and background. Data were collected from 300 adult participants using survey method. Among the participants 171 were male and 129 were female. Their age range was 17 to 90 (Mean = 37.69, SD=12.47). Psychometric analysis included item analysis, principal component analysis with varimax rotation, test-retest reliability and internal consistency reliability using Cronbach's alpha. The 43-items were found to be psychometrically acceptable to construct this Bangla version of RFS by Webster (9). Data revealed eight factors, namely -Boredom Reduction, Death Preparation, Identity, Problem-Solving, Conversation, Intimacy Maintenance, Bitterness Revival, and Teach/Inform. Test-retest and internal consistency reliability of the instrument was found .81 and .89 respectively. Psychometric evidences indicate this self-report Likert instrument is both reliable as well as valid measure of reminiscence function and hence suggested to be usable in the context of Bangladesh.
Highlights
Reminiscence, a process of recalling memories from our personal past, is thought to be a universal phenomenon across the world
Coleman [1] distinguished between simple reminiscence and informative reminiscence whereas LoGerfo [4] added evaluated life review and obsessive reminiscence with informative reminiscence
Step one: Confirmation of same construct: Available literature like scientific journal articles, periodicals, books, and culturally adapted scales published on reminiscence functions were consulted to determine whether the constructs of the original reminiscence function scale convey the same meanings for Bangladeshi people and their culture
Summary
Reminiscence, a process of recalling memories from our personal past, is thought to be a universal phenomenon across the world. On the other hand using content analysis Wong & Watt [11] identified six types of reminiscence named as Integrative reminiscence, Instrumental reminiscence, Transmissive reminiscence, Obsessive reminiscence, Narrative reminiscence, and Escapist reminiscence (See [11] for review). Some of these types are not mutually exclusive since reminiscence may serve several purposes at the same time. Webster & Haight [10] reviewed the systems proposed by various authors for categorizing functions of reminiscence They identified significant overlap among the classifications and they proposed the taxonomy with eight distinct purposes of reminiscence. Reminiscence can be used to discover meaning and continuity (Identity), to draw on past experience to solve present problems and to cope (Problem-Solving), to provide an instructive story (Teach/Inform), to give substance for telling a descriptive story (Conversation), to dwell on the past and escape from the present (Boredom Reduction), to obsess about unresolved disturbing past events (Bitterness Revival), to prepare for death (Death Preparation), and to maintain alive memories of significant others (Intimacy Maintenance)
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