Factor structure of the college adjustment scales

The present study examined the underlying structure of the College Adjustme nt Scales via principal components analysis. A correlation matrix of the ni ne subscales showed significant multicolinearity. A subsequent principal co mponents analysis demonstrated that one factor accounted for 57% of the tot al variance and that the majority of subscales were moderately correlated w ith this single factor. The results suggest that the College Adjustment Sca les may measure the same underlying construct and that the clinical distinc tions implied by subscale scores should be regarded with caution. Conclusio ns are constrained by sample size and demographic characteristics, but the results suggest, the need for further empirical validation of the College A djustment Scales, which may be useful in college counseling centers.