A short measure of trait and state negative and positive affect (Chinese Affect Scale) was developed for Chinese-speaking people. From indigenously derived affect markers the characteristic two-factor structure of affect was derived in both a student and an adult sample in Hong Kong. Scores from the resulting negative (NA) and positive (PA) affect scales had reasonable internal and retest reliabilities and high convergent and discriminant validity, with NA correlating with neuroticism, negative self-appraisal, stress, and pessimism; and PA correlating with extraversion, positive self-appraisal, optimism, and self-esteem. Both state NA and PA versions of the scales were shown to be sensitive to episodal mood changes over life events (daily log), to laboratory mood induction, and to movie themes for moviegoers in a field setting. The psychometric properties of the CAS were replicable in the student and adult samples.
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