Psychometric properties of a Japanese version of the Modest Behavior Scale and its relationship to explicit and implicit self-esteem

Abstract This investigation aimed to validate a Japanese version of the Modest Behavior Scale (MBS-J) measure behavioral aspects modesty as self-presentation tactic. Two preliminary surveys and three studies were conducted. Study 1 examined factorial validity, construct internal consistency MBS, adding emic items generated from sample in surveys. The results confirmed three-factor structure Self-Effacement, Other-Enhancement, Avoidance Attention-Seeking, with good for each subscale. Studies 3 also evinced appropriate correlations between MBS-J subscales theoretically related constructs, namely, trait modesty, independent interdependent self-construal, self-efficacy, self-esteem, approval motivation, dialectical self, suggesting validity. Using two-wave survey, 2 showed test–retest reliability MBS-J. In 3, it was hypothesized that those higher Self-Effacement tend report lower explicit self-esteem owing strategy instead actual self-regard. strongly negatively correlated but not implicit supporting hypothesis. These findings confirm validity this scale modest behavior performed self-presentation.