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2025-04-20
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Abstract
This dissertation extends the Ethical Perspectives Scale (EPS; Diegel et al., 2024) by incorporating Care ethics as a sixth moral dimension. Rooted in feminist moral philosophy, Care emphasizes empathy, attentiveness, and relational sensitivity, qualities often overlooked in existing psychological models of moral judgment. Across four studies (N = 1,401), we developed and validated the Revised Ethical Perspectives Scale (REPS), a six-factor measure of ethical reasoning.
Study 1 used exploratory factor analysis to identify three Care items that loaded onto a distinct factor. Study 2 demonstrated moderate test–retest reliability over three weeks, supporting the temporal stability of the Care subscale. Study 3 used confirmatory factor analysis and predictive modeling to assess Care’s unique contributions to moral judgments across 50 dilemmas. Study 4 replicated these findings in a nationally diverse adult sample, establishing external validity.
Across studies, Care consistently predicted decisions in contexts involving interpersonal vulnerability, emotional salience, and harm prevention. It also uniquely predicted higher subjective well-being. These findings support Care ethics as a stable, psychometrically distinct moral orientation that enhances the REPS framework. By measuring compassion-based reasoning, the REPS offers a more comprehensive tool for understanding individual differences in moral judgment.
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Psychology