Development and Validation of a Comprehensive Questionnaire for Manasa Prakriti Assessment in Ayurveda

Abstract

Background: Ayurveda emphasizes Manasa Prakriti (mental constitution) as essential for understanding an individual’s mental tendencies and behavior. While Sharirika Prakriti is well-studied, structured tools for Manasa Prakriti assessment are limited.

Objective: To develop and validate a comprehensive, standardized questionnaire for Manasa Prakriti assessment based on classical Ayurvedic literature and statistical validation.

Methods: This study employed literature review, expert consultations, questionnaire construction, and psychometric validation including internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha), test-retest reliability, and construct validity using exploratory factor analysis. Data from 145 participants were analyzed.

Results: The questionnaire showed high content validity (I-CVI > 0.85), strong internal consistency (α = 0.89), and valid construct structure matching Sattvika, Rajasika, and Tamasika traits as described in the classics. All sub-domains aligned with theoretical frameworks from Ayurvedic and psychological literature.

Conclusion: The developed and validated Manasa Prakriti questionnaire provides a reliable tool for mental constitution assessment, facilitating personalized treatment, education, and psychological wellness in Ayurvedic practice.