Being, belonging and becoming: Development of the 3B Scale.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the current study was to assess the construct validity and internal consistency of a measure used by an occupation-based, mental health program. The measure was formulated according to the 3B theory of being, belong and becoming and system impacts.

METHODS: The scale was administered to a sample of 122 current members of Northern Initiative for Social Action. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was carried out to examine the model fit of the 3B Scale. Internal reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha measure of internal consistency.

RESULTS: The CFA confirmed the four hypothesised underlying constructs of the 3B theory. The results of the CFA reported adequate model fit. Each factor had good to excellent internal reliability with Cronbach's alpha ranging from 0.81 to 0.91.

CONCLUSION: The 3B Scale is a valid and reliable tool for measuring Being, Belonging and Becoming needs in an occupation-based mental health program. The 3B Scale is an example of an outcome measure created specifically to quantify program outcomes and demonstrates that instruments suited to unique programs can be individually configured and assist occupational therapists in their efforts to measure client perspectives. These are the essential first steps to client-centred practice and the development of practice-based evidence. The 3B Scale may be useful to similar peer-led programs, as well as community-based occupational programs that foster participation. Further research is needed to determine whether the 3B Scale can detect change over time.