Italian Validation of the Christian Religious Internalization Scale

The Christian Religious Internalization Scale (Ryan, Rigby, & King, 1993) measures two different types of internalization of religious values and behaviors: an introjected internalization, mainly based on seeking for self and others’ approval, and an identified internalization, that represents the adoption of religious behaviors as personally chosen and valued. In the present study, we tested the CRIS factor structure in an Italian sample, estimated its reliability and internal consistency and explored its intercorrelation with other measures of religiosity and with two measures of personal well-being. Results showed that a 10-item version of the CRIS is a valid measure as it captures the different degrees of religious internalization in Italian youths; identification subscale (and not introjection) showed positive correlations with attending church and religious groups, with perceived subjective importance of religion and with satisfaction with life and religious well-being.