A new measure of fantasy and its relation to imagination and creativity

We report the construction and validation of a comprehensive self-report measure of fantasy. Unlike previous measures of fantasy, which focus on psychopathology, we conceive fantasy as a trait with positive connotation. We provided support for a two-factor conceptualization of the construct, with the dimensions Imaginative Fantasy and Creative Fantasy. Imaginative Fantasy refers to vivid imagination and absorption in these images and daydreams. Creative Fantasy refers to the activity of using fantasy to create new ideas. The trait measure showed good internal consistency, test-retest reliability, discriminant and convergent construct validity, as well as incremental validity. In a subsequent study, we explored how fantasy – as measured with our scale – is related to imagination and creativity. Our findings can contribute to our understanding of individual differences in inner experiences, creative processes, and problem solving