Revisiting the hierarchical structure of the 24 VIA character strengths: Three global dimensions may suffice to capture their essence

The Values in Action (VIA) framework maps 24 character strengths onto six more abstract virtues through a theoretical classification. However, compared to other individual difference constructs, there is little consensus about the factor-analytic structure of VIA trait space. Applying Horn’s parallel analysis, Goldberg’s Bass-ackwards approach, and cross-country congruency we scrutinize solutions-hierarchy with aim identify one or useful global levels abstraction (akin Big Five, HEXACO/Big Six, personality metatraits). We assessed psychometrically refined IPIP-VIA-R inventory two large heterogeneous samples from Germany UK (total N ≈ 2,000). Results suggested that three dimensions suffice capture essence strengths: Level III recovered than 50% total variation well-interpretable, global/general, cross-culturally replicable dimensions. provisionally labeled them positivity, dependability, mastery. Their superordinate Level-II-dimensions were reminiscent “Big Two” metatraits Dynamism Social Self-Regulation. Our results advance understanding space may serve as basis for developing scales assess these