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Psychological Capital (PsyCap) represents an individual's positive and resourceful state, defined by high levels of self‐efficacy, optimism, hope, and resiliency. Since its inception, extensive research has focused on exploring the factors influencing and outcomes associated with PsyCap within organizational contexts. Consequently, there has been a growing demand for reliable assessment tools to measure PsyCap accurately. The present multi‐study investigation aimed to examine whether the two main measures of Psychological Capital, namely the Psychological Capital Questionnaire and the Implicit‐Psychological Capital Questionnaire, show convergence in measuring the same underlying construct. In Study 1, using data from 327 employees from whom we obtained both self‐ and coworker reports on both explicit and implicit Psychological Capital, we evaluated the degree of convergence between measures using a Multitrait‐Multimethod approach. In Study 2, we used six‐wave longitudinal data from 354 employees, gathered every week for 6 consecutive weeks, to test a series of STARTS models, to decompose the proportions of variance of all the components (i.e., trait, state and error) of both Psychological Capital measures, and to compare their magnitude and similarity. In this second study, we also compared their longitudinal predictive power with respect to important organizational outcomes (i.e., work engagement and emotional exhaustion). All in all, results provided empirical evidence for the high degree of convergence of explicit and implicit measures of Psychological Capital. Implications and potential applications of our findings are discussed. Practitioner points: This study examined convergence of two main measures of PsyCap on the same construct.Results showed high convergence of explicit and implicit measures of Psychological Capital.PsyCap consist of changeable stable variance and predicts engagement and exhaustion.Our studies add theoretical and practical insights to PsyCap measurement literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the current research was to translate the Family Bondedness Scale (FBS), a recently developed scale for measuring the extent to which pet owners are emotionally bonded with their pets in a manner commensurate with their emotional bondedness with human family members, into Spanish and test the measurement equivalence, or measurement invariance, of scores from the English and Spanish versions. This study was intended to address the need for Spanish versions of human-animal interaction (HAI) and human-animal bond (HAB) measures given the rapid increase in Latinx pet owning families in the United States. The FBS was first translated from English to Spanish using the back translation method. A measurement equivalence study was then conducted. A total of 732 responses on the FBS were obtained, 511 on the English version and 221 on the Spanish version. Readability analyses suggested both versions require a second grade reading level. Multi-Group Confirmatory Factor Analyses, with and without covariates, were used to test for three forms of measurement equivalence: configural, metric, and scalar. Results were consistent with full configural and full metric invariance, and with partial scalar invariance. The results suggested the item intercepts of seven FBS items were not the same for the two versions. Further analyses suggested the practical importance of the lack of full scalar invariance of these seven items was minimal. Results were also consistent with the equivalence of reliabilities of scores on the two versions. These findings support the use of the Spanish version of the FBS in HAI and HAB research. The results also have implications for future research on the Spanish version of the FBS.

Qian Song,1,2,* Kaili Zheng,1,2,* Zixia Ding,1,2 Zhengmiao Miao,1,2 Zhaoxia Liu,1,2 Ming Cheng,3 Jinyao Yi1,2,4 1Medical Psychological Center, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People’s Republic of China; 2Medical Psychological Institute, Central South University, Changsha, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Clinical Psychology, Hunan Brain Hospital, Changsha, People’s Republic of China; 4National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, Changsha, 410011, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Jinyao Yi, Medical Psychological Center, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, People’s Republic of China, Email jinyaoyi@csu.edu.cnBackground: There exist four short forms of the Social Interaction Anxiety Scale (SIAS): 10-item version (SIAS-10), 6-item version by Peters et al (SIAS-6P), 6-item version by Fergus et al (SIAS-6F), and 5-item version (SIAS-5). This study aims to comprehensively examine the psychometric properties of the SIAS-10, SIAS-6P, SIAS-6F, and SIAS-5 and to determine which one performs relatively better in Chinese population.Methods: This study enrolled 733 Chinese college students. The unidimensionality of the SIAS-10, SIAS-6P, SIAS-6F, SIAS-5 was examined using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). Multi-Group CFA was further adopted to assess measurement equivalence across gender. Internal consistency reliability and criteria-related validity were also evaluated. Additionally, the measurement performance of the SIAS-10, SIAS-6P, SIAS-6F, and SIAS-5 was assessed with Item Response Theory (IRT), which estimated the discrimination parameter and the Item Characteristic Curve (ICC) for each item.Results: Except for the SIAS-5, the SIAS-10, SIAS-6P, and SIAS-6F displayed a good-fit to the one-factor model. Furthermore, the SIAS-10 achieved strict equivalence across gender while other versions did not. The SIAS-10, SIAS-6P, SIAS-6F and SIAS-5 all had acceptable internal consistency and significant correlations with criteria scales. The IRT results showed that the SIAS-10 included more items with higher discrimination and peaked ICCs (indicating more informative), whereas the SIAS-6P included more items with lower discrimination and flat ICCs (indicating less informative).Conclusion: For assessing social anxiety in Chinese under constrained conditions, the SIAS-10 is recommended to clinicians for it measuring equivalently across gender, reflecting the relevant criteria variables well, and discriminating various levels of social anxiety sensitively.Keywords: social anxiety, psychometric properties, measurement equivalence, item response theory, Chinese

The global COVID‐19 pandemic saw marked research and clinical interest in evaluating pandemic‐related distress, namely fear and anxiety regarding infection and death. The most widely used and earliest developed measure of COVID‐19 distress is Ahorsu et al. (2022) seven‐item Fear of COVID‐19 Scale (FCV‐19S). To investigate the factor structure and measurement equivalence of the FCV‐19S, we conducted an item‐level meta‐analysis synthesizing 1155 effect sizes across k = 55 independent samples comprising N = 71,161 individuals. We found that a two‐factor measurement model comprising a four‐item Emotional factor and a three‐item Psychosomatic factor exhibits better fit than the originally proposed single‐factor measurement model. Moreover, the bidimensional FCV‐19S exhibits partial scalar/strong invariance across the general population, healthcare workers, schoolteachers, and university students as well as partial metric/weak invariance across samples from Bangladesh, China, Japan, Pakistan, Poland, and Portugal. Despite the theoretical and practical implications of these findings, more primary research across a wider range of sample types and countries is undoubtedly needed for further evaluation of the FCV‐19S's psychometric properties and generalizability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Standardization of neuropsychological tests is crucial for consistency in cognitive assessment, as well as for validity and comparability of results across different populations. We examined the applicability and measurement equivalence of the Alzheimer Disease Research Centers' Neuropsychological Test Battery (version 3) (ADRC-NTB3) in Singapore. Methods: The ADRC-NTB3 was administered to 978 older persons with normal cognition in Singapore. To provide comparison between Singapore and US samples, a US sample with similar profile was retrieved from the National Alzheimer Coordinating Center (NACC) database. Patients: Scores were compared with 1853 participants with similar profile from the United States. Score-difference between the populations was computed using multiple linear regression (adjusted for covariates), with equivalent score considered present when 90% CI of the score-difference fell within the predefined margin of equivalence. Results: Tasks assessing for memory, processing speed, and executive functioning showed equivalence in scores between US and Singapore samples (adjusted-score difference=−0.94 to 0.09). Singapore sample performed marginally better on the visuospatial task (adjusted-score difference=0.50), but poorer on the language task (adjusted-score difference=−3.22). Discussion: Nonequivalence of visuospatial and language tasks, which may increase potential misinterpretation of cognitive profiles and misdiagnosis, are related to educational and cultural differences. This highlights the need for different normative data for more accurate diagnostic accuracy as well as research priorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A growing number of studies test key cultural constructs used in comparative political research for invariance across countries, only to declare these constructs incomparable if the invariance tests fail. The assumption underlying this kind of conclusion is that between-country differences in within-country factor solutions reflect cross-cultural inequivalence of the respective survey items. Using a Bayesian approach, we explore variation in measurement quality across countries focusing on sexual emancipation. We find that between-country differences in factor solutions reflect little more than imbalances in within-country dispersions of the construct items. As we demonstrate, discrete and bounded response scales used in standard surveys enforce a mathematical relationship between extreme country means, low within-country dispersions, and weak factor solutions. We formalize this insight by introducing a between–within model of cultural variation. Our contribution calls into question the practice of declaring constructs to be incomparable based on failed invariance tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free will is assumed to be the core of an individual’s self-concept. Belief in free will has been studied extensively and was found to be correlated with many behavioural and psychological outcomes. Although developed and validated in the West, the Free will and Determinism Plus (FAD-Plus) scale has been translated, used, and interpreted as a measurement of free will beliefs in multiple cultures. However, the cross-cultural measurement invariance of FAD-Plus has not been examined. Given the cultural differences in understanding the concept of ‘free will’, items of FAD-Plus may have different interpretations in different cultures, which may compromise its cross-cultural measurement invariance. To provide empirical evidence for the lack of cross-cultural measurement invariance, we collected data in China and analyzed these data together with open datasets of FAD-Plus in three other languages: Japanese, French and English. We only found partial measurement invariance between the Chinese and English datasets, as well as the Japanese and English datasets. These results provided the first assessment of cross-cultural measure invariance of FAD-Plus. We discussed the potential implications of the current study for future studies in the field.

Karolin ME Nettelrodt,1 Ivonne Tomsic,1 Maike Stolz,2 Christian Krauth,2 Iris F Chaberny,3,4 Thomas von Lengerke1 1Department of Medical Psychology, Center of Public Health, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; 2Institute of Epidemiology, Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Center of Public Health, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; 3Institute of Hygiene, Hospital Epidemiology and Environmental Medicine, Leipzig University Hospital, Leipzig, Germany; 4Christian-Albrecht University of Kiel and University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Institute of Hospital Epidemiology and Environmental Hygiene, Kiel, GermanyCorrespondence: Thomas von Lengerke, Hannover Medical School, Center of Public Health, Department of Medical Psychology (OE 5430), Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, Hannover, 30625, Germany, Tel +49 511 532 4445, Fax +49 511 532 4214, Email lengerke.thomas@mh-hannover.dePurpose: Psychosocial determinants influence healthcare workers’ compliance with surgical site infection (SSI) preventive interventions. In order to design needs-based interventions promoting compliance, such determinants must first be assessed using valid and reliable questionnaire scales. To compare professional groups without bias, the scales must also be measurement-equivalent. We examine the validity/reliability and measurement equivalence of four scales using data from physicians and nurses from outside the university sector. Additionally, we explore associations with self-reported SSI preventive compliance.Participants and Methods: N = 90 physicians and N = 193 nurses (response rate: 31.5%) from nine general/visceral or orthopedic/trauma surgery departments in six non-university hospitals in Germany participated. A written questionnaire was used to assess the compliance with SSI preventive interventions and the determinants of compliance based on the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behavior-Model. Psychometric testing involved single- and multiple-group confirmatory factor analyses, and explorative analyses used t-tests and multiple linear regression.Results: The scales assessing individual determinants of compliance (capability, motivation, and planning) were found to be reliable (each Cronbach’s α ≥ 0.85) and valid (each Root-Mean-Square-Error of Approximation ≤ 0.065, each Comparative-Fit-Index = 0.95) and revealed measurement equivalence for physicians and nurses. The scale assessing external determinants (opportunity) did not demonstrate validity, reliability, or measurement equivalence. Group differences were found neither in compliance (p = 0.627) nor determinants (p = 0.192; p = 0.866; p = 0.964). Capability (β = 0.301) and planning (β = 0.201) showed associations with compliance for nurses only.Conclusion: The scales assessing motivation, capability, and planning regarding SSI preventive compliance provided reliable and valid scores for physicians and nurses in surgery. Measurement equivalence allows group comparisons of scale means to be interpreted without bias.Keywords: infection prevention and control, surgical site infections, compliance, nurses, physicians, capability-opportunity-motivation-behavior (COM-B) model, measurement equivalence

Verify the measurement equivalence by nationality (Colombia and Ecuador), internal consistency, and discrimination and difficulty from the Item Response Theory of the Satisfaction with Life Scale. Instrumental study based on Classical Test Theory (CTT) and Item Response Theory (IRT). 464 university students, 217 of Colombian (54.4% women, mean age = 20.9 years, SD = 3.4), and 250 Ecuadorian (60% women, mean age = 21 years, SD = 2.0). The SWLS presented a single-factor model for both the Colombian and Ecuadorian samples. In addition, the instrument presented measurement equivalence between countries at the metric level and has adequate internal consistency according to the CTT criteria. Finally, regarding the IRT criteria, the items present adequate discrimination and difficulty. The SWLS presents evidence of cross-cultural invariance in addition to having new properties based on the IRT that have not been fully investigated before. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have performed cross-cultural comparisons of academic burnout in Asia, however the equivalency of various measurements of academic burnout remains unclear, as well as whether the key characteristics of academic burnout are similar across cultures or nations. The current study conducted a cross-cultural investigation of academic burnout among secondary school students in China and Kazakhstan to address two objectives: (a) to evaluate the measurement invariance of the Academic Burnout Scale between the two nations, and (b) using a network approach, to compare the similarities and differences in the core features and network structure of academic burnout. Two datasets were gathered from secondary school students, a Chinese sample (51.1% girls; M = 14.42 years, SD = 1.47) and a Kazakhstani sample (56.1% girls; M = 14.16, SD = 1.41). Results showed that the Academic Burnout Scale had similar item-factor combination and factor loadings for both the Chinese and Kazakhstani samples, however item thresholds were not equivalent across the two countries, suggesting that comparing mean scores of academic burnout among secondary students in these two countries is not meaningful. The network structure of academic burnout demonstrated a similar pattern in both samples, with Item 6 ("It does not matter if I study or not") assessing cynicism, and Item 15 ("I cope well with my studies") being the core feature in both samples. Our findings further the understanding of academic burnout in a cross-cultural context, and provide clinical implications for interventions on academic burnout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Given the growing evidence on the health benefits associated with physical literacy (PL), it is necessary to develop sound measures to assess the levels of PL in children. The Physical Literacy in Children Questionnaire (PL-C Quest) is the first self-report pictorial-based scale to assess children’s perceived PL. It has good validity and reliability in Australian children aged 7 to 12 years, but little is known in younger children and in other cultural contexts. The aim of this study was to examine the validity and reliability in an expanded age range. Methods A total of 1,870 Chinese children (girls, n = 871; 46.6%), aged 4 to 12 years (M = 8.07 ± 2.42) participated in validity testing. Structural equation modeling with the Weighted Least Squares with Mean and Variance approach was used to assess construct validity. The hypothesized theoretical model used the 30 items and four hypothesized factors: physical, psychological, social and cognitive capabilities. Multigroup confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess sex and age group (4–6 years, 7–9 years and 10–12 years) measurement invariance. Internal consistency analyses were conducted using polychoric alpha. A random subsample (n = 262) was selected to determine test–retest reliability using Intra-Class Correlations (ICC). Results All items except one (moving with equipment–skateboarding) loaded on sub-domains with λ > 0.45. The hypothesized model had a good fit (CFI = 0.954, TLI = 0.950, RMSEA = 0.042), with measurement equivalence across sex and age groups separately. Internal consistency values were good to excellent (overall: α = 0.94; physical: α = 0.86; psychological: α = 0.83; social: α = 0.81; cognitive: α = 0.86). Test–retest reliability was adequate to excellent (overall: ICC = 0.90, physical: ICC = 0.86, psychological: ICC = 0.75, social: ICC = 0.71, cognitive: ICC = 0.72). Conclusion The Chinese version of the PL-C Quest is valid and reliable for testing the self-reported PL of Chinese children aged 4 to 12. This study provides the first evidence of validity for this tool in children aged 4–6 years and also evidence that the PL-C Quest would be a meaningful instrument to assess PL in Chinese children.

School-based universal screening in the social, emotional, and behavioral (SEB) domains allows for the early identification of students in need of SEB support. Importantly, equitable assessment in universal screening for the SEB domains is critical to engage in accurate and ethical data-based decision-making. Measurement invariance is one method for examining potential inequities in assessment tools, permitting the ability to evaluate which assessments or assessment items perform differently across groups. As such, this study utilized multi-group confirmatory factor analysis to evaluate the extent of measurement invariance for a commonly used universal screening tool for the SEB domains: the Social, Academic, and Emotional Behavior Risk Screener - Teacher Rating Scale (SAEBRS-TRS). The sample consisted of 1949 students in kindergarten through fourth grade in a Midwest, suburban school district. Examination of factor structures indicated the bifactor model yielded adequate fit and was utilized for measurement invariance testing. Multi-group confirmatory factor analysis results provided preliminary evidence that the SAEBRS-TRS displays invariance across a variety of student characteristics. Specifically, results supported configural and metric/scalar invariance of the bifactor model across the student characteristics of racial or ethnic identity, sex assigned at birth, and eligibility for free or reduced-price lunch. Yet, future research is needed to corroborate these findings. Limitations, implications for practice, and directions for future research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The Self-Efficacy to Manage Chronic Disease (SEMCD) scale is widely used, including in systemic sclerosis (SSc). The SEMCD has been validated in SSc, but the metric equivalence of the English and French versions has not been assessed (i.e., whether psychometric properties are equivalent across English and French). Methods: Participants were adults from the Scleroderma Patient-Centered Intervention Network (SPIN) Cohort (N = 2159) who completed baseline measures in English (n = 1473) or French (n = 686) between May 2014 to July 2020. Analyses assessed internal consistency reliability via Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega, convergent validity via Pearson's correlations, structural validity via confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and differential item functioning via the Multiple-Indicator Multiple-Cause (MIMIC) model. Results: Internal consistency reliability was high in English (α =.93, ω =.93) and French (α =.92, ω =.93). All correlations between the SEMCD and measures of health outcomes were moderate to large, statistically significant, and in the hypothesized direction in both languages. The CFA demonstrated that the one-factor model of self-efficacy, overall, fit reasonably well (CFI =.96, TLI =.93, SRMR =.03, RMSEA =.14). Standardized factor loadings were large (.76 to.88). Three items displayed statistically significant uniform DIF and all six displayed nonuniform DIF; all DIF was of minimal magnitude. Comparison of unadjusted and DIF-adjusted models indicated that DIF did not meaningfully impact total score (ICC = 0.999, r = 0.999). Conclusion: Scores from English- and French-speaking adults with SSc can be combined for analysis or compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social workers from minoritized racial, ethnic, linguistic, and age groups are far less likely to pass licensing examinations required to practice. Using a simulated data set, our study investigates measurement equivalence, or invariance, of social work licensing exams. For this analysis, we simulated responses to 15 multiple-choice questions which were scored as either correct or incorrect using the R mirt package and used mirt to fit a 2-parameter logistic model (2PL) to the response data. We generated the data so that five items could demonstrate DIF and calculated their impact on the test characteristic curves and item characteristic curves. Small amounts of differential item functioning added up into differential test functioning, but the effect size was small. This result is one potential outcome of an analysis of ASWB exams. Most studies evaluating test characteristic curves demonstrate small effect sizes. Measuring the test characteristic curve and the test information curve will help to investigate content-irrelevant sources of variance in the exams, including unfairness, unreliability, and invalid pass scores. Differential test functioning is a core part of measurement invariance studies. Psychometric standards require test developers to assess measurement invariance at both the item-level and test-level to protect themselves from accusations of bias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aimed to identify measurement equivalence at latent structure level of Cattell's Culture Fair Intelligence Test among male and female students at Qassim University in the city of Buraydah through Testing four main models: Configural Invariance, Metric Invariance, Scalar Invariance and Error variance invariance using statistical method Multi-Group Confirmatory Factor Analysis. The study also aimed to find out whether or not there are differences in the latent variables between male and female students in the test after verifying the equivalence of its measurement, utilizing Latent Mean Constructs statistical method. The descriptive-comparative approach was adopted; Cattell's Culture-Fair Intelligence Test (Scale 3) Form A, was administered to a sample of (681) male and female students, selected by randomization. The study results showed that there was a complete measurement equivalence through verifying its four models, and overall matching of latent structure between male and female students at Qassim University, and there were no differences between the sexes in the latent traits of intelligence. There are no differences between the sexes in the latent traits of intelligence Based on the results of the study, a set of recommendations were presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Due to the limitations of the existing measurements of experiential avoidance, we would like to check the validity of the improved version of Acceptance and Action Questionnaire–II (AAQ-II), i.e., Acceptance and Action Questionnaire–3 (AAQ-3), in Chinese content. The present study was aim to examine the construct and validity of the Chinese version of AAQ-3 in college students and provide an initial validation of this instrument to promote future cross-cultural examination of the psychological flexibility. Totally 1,572 college students were invited to complete the Chinese AAQ-3 and the related questionnaires at the same time. After one month, 380 participates were assessed with same questionnaires to examine the test-retest reliability. The results indicated a similar one-factor solution in the Chinese AAQ-3 to the original version by exploratory factor analysis, parallel analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. Internal consistency and test–retest reliability were good. According to the testing of the measurement invariance, the one-factor model was acceptable across gender (Man = 875, Girl = 697). Additionally, Chinese AAQ-3 was significantly negatively correlated with positive mental health (life satisfaction, mindful attention awareness), significantly positively correlated with negative emotions (depression, anxiety, stress), and significantly positively correlated with AAQ–II and Brief Experiential Avoidance Questionnaire (BEAQ). Besides, Chinese AAQ-3 was the strongest predictor of depression, anxiety, stress and life satisfaction compared to the AAQ-II and BEAQ. However, according to the exploratory structural equation model, the Chinese AAQ-3 demonstrated excellent discriminate validity from negative emotions. Overall, the AAQ-3 modified the limitations of the existing measurements of experiential avoidance (i.e., AAQ-II and BEAQ) as it showed better convergent validity with positive mental health indicators, better discriminant validity with negative emotions, and higher incremental validity. Therefore, the Chinese AAQ-3 is a valid measurement tool for assessing the level of experiential avoidance or psychological flexibility in Chinese college students.

The Adult-Oriented Sport Coaching Survey (AOSCS) is a valid and reliable measure of coaches' and Masters athletes' perspectives of how often adult-oriented coaching practices are used. However, Masters athletes' heterogenous traits have been acknowledged as barriers to generalizing research findings on coaching behaviors. Therefore, this study aimed to conduct invariance testing of the AOSCS across groups of Masters athletes based on age, gender, competition level, and sport grouping variables. A sample of 616 Masters athletes (61.9% female, 37.5% male; Mage = 54.47 years, SD = 10.82) completed the AOSCS-A (athlete version) and demographic questions. The results indicated the AOSCS-A demonstrates configural, metric, scalar, and strict invariance across Masters athletes that differed on age, gender, competition level, and sport. This evidence advances the AOSCS-A as an assessment tool by ensuring confidence in the measurement and interpretation of adult-oriented coaching practices reported by Masters athletes, irrespective of age, gender, competition level, and sport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to examine the validity of EQ-5D-5L among HFrEF patients in Malaysia, and to explore the measurement equivalence of three main language versions. Methods: We surveyed HFrEF patients from two hospitals in Malaysia, using Malay, English or Chinese versions of EQ-5D-5L. EQ-5D-5L dimensional scores were converted to utility scores using the Malaysian value set. A confirmatory factor analysis longitudinal model was constructed. The utility and visual analog scale (VAS) scores were evaluated for validity (convergent, known-group, responsiveness), and measurement equivalence of the three language versions. Results: 200 HFrEF patients (mean age = 61 years), predominantly male (74%) of Malay ethnicity (55%), completed the admission and discharge EQ-5D-5L questionnaire in Malay (49%), English (26%) or Chinese (25%) languages. 173 patients (86.5%) were followed up at 1-month post-discharge (1MPD). The standardized factor loadings and average variance extracted were ≥ 0.5 while composite reliability was ≥ 0.7, suggesting convergent validity. Patients with older age and higher New York Heart Association (NYHA) class reported significantly lower utility and VAS scores. The change in utility and VAS scores between admission and discharge was large, while the change between discharge and 1MPD was minimal. The minimal clinically important difference for utility and VAS scores was ±0.19 and ±11.01, respectively. Malay and English questionnaire were equivalent while the equivalence of Malay and Chinese questionnaire was inconclusive. Limitation: This study only sampled HFrEF patients from two teaching hospitals, thus limiting the generalizability of results to the entire heart failure population. Conclusion: EQ-5D-5L is a valid questionnaire to measure health-related quality of life and estimate utility values among HFrEF patients in Malaysia. The Malay and English versions of EQ-5D-5L appear equivalent for clinical and economic assessments. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: EQ-5D is the most commonly used questionnaire to measure patients' health-related quality of life in clinical trials and health technology assessments. To increase confidence over clinical trial findings that heart failure interventions improve health-related quality of life and quality-adjusted life years (number of years alive with equivalence health-related quality of life), the questionnaire used to measure health-related quality of life needs to be validated in the specific population. Since EQ-5D-5L has not been validated in Malaysia's heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) population, this study evaluated the psychometric properties (validity) of EQ-5D-5L among HFrEF patients in Malaysia and the equivalence of different versions of languages (i.e. Malay, Chinese and English) of EQ-5D-5L in measuring the health-related quality of life. The findings suggested that EQ-5D-5L is a valid questionnaire to measure the health-related quality of life in HFrEF patients and estimate the quality-adjusted life years. The Malay and English versions of EQ-5D-5L appear to be equivalent for use in clinical trials and health technology assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-assessments are commonly used to track Army readiness in specialized communities, but they are rarely analyzed for reliability and predictive validity. Before introducing new assessments, existing ones should be reevaluated. We examined the Global Assessment Tool (GAT), an annual Army-required self-assessment with multiple psychosocial and health behavior short scales. Psychometric analyses on nine scales included item response theory (IRT) and measurement invariance models across total Army (n = 743,057) and special operations forces (SOF; n = 3,478) cohorts. Predictive analyses examined demographic-adjusted associations between GAT scales and one-year incident medical non-readiness (MNR). Most scales had adequate reliability, although some exhibited highly skewed distributions, which likely increased measurement error. Most scales exhibited metric and scalar measurement equivalence across total Army and SOF groups. Scores from scales measuring positive characteristics were associated with lower odds of MNR (good coping, flexibility, optimism, positive affect, work engagement, friendship, organization trust; adjusted odds ratios ≤ 0.75); scores from scales measuring negative characteristics were associated with increased odds of MNR (poor sleep, depression, negative affect, loneliness; adjusted odds ratios ≥ 1.4). Associations were similar across Army and SOF cohorts. In conclusion, self-report data can potentially contribute to command surveillance, but iterative quality-checks are necessary after deployment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The purpose of the current research was to translate the Family Bondedness Scale (FBS), a recently developed scale for measuring the extent to which pet owners are emotionally bonded with their pets in a manner commensurate with their emotional bondedness with human family members, into Spanish and test the measurement equivalence, or measurement invariance, of scores from the English and Spanish versions. This study was intended to address the need for Spanish versions of human-animal interaction (HAI) and human-animal bond (HAB) measures given the rapid increase in Latinx pet owning families in the United States. The FBS was first translated from English to Spanish using the back translation method. A measurement equivalence study was then conducted. A total of 732 responses on the FBS were obtained, 511 on the English version and 221 on the Spanish version. Readability analyses suggested both versions require a second grade reading level. Multi-Group Confirmatory Factor Analyses, with and without covariates, were used to test for three forms of measurement equivalence: configural, metric, and scalar. Results were consistent with full configural and full metric invariance, and with partial scalar invariance. The results suggested the item intercepts of seven FBS items were not the same for the two versions. Further analyses suggested the practical importance of the lack of full scalar invariance of these seven items was minimal. Results were also consistent with the equivalence of reliabilities of scores on the two versions. These findings support the use of the Spanish version of the FBS in HAI and HAB research. The results also have implications for future research on the Spanish version of the FBS.

Social physique anxiety is commonly examined in exercise science to understand individuals' physical activity motivation and behavior. Although a 12-item and 9-item version of the Social Physique Anxiety Scale exists, a 7-item version has become a popular tool to measure this construct despite the need to further examine its measurement properties. The current study examined the factor structure of the 7-item scale and measurement invariance across age, gender, body mass index, typical exercise mode, and education level. Similar to past work, confirmatory factor analysis model modifications were needed to achieve adequate fit in our large sample of physically active men and women (N = 1009; M age = 28.6 ± 10.6 years). Multi-group latent analysis revealed measurement invariance only for the education level grouping variable. Researchers should examine and report the measurement model of the 7-item scale along with measurement invariance before proceeding with main analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Due to the limitations of the existing measurements of experiential avoidance, we would like to check the validity of the improved version of Acceptance and Action Questionnaire–II (AAQ-II), i.e., Acceptance and Action Questionnaire–3 (AAQ-3), in Chinese content. The present study was aim to examine the construct and validity of the Chinese version of AAQ-3 in college students and provide an initial validation of this instrument to promote future cross-cultural examination of the psychological flexibility. Totally 1,572 college students were invited to complete the Chinese AAQ-3 and the related questionnaires at the same time. After one month, 380 participates were assessed with same questionnaires to examine the test-retest reliability. The results indicated a similar one-factor solution in the Chinese AAQ-3 to the original version by exploratory factor analysis, parallel analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. Internal consistency and test–retest reliability were good. According to the testing of the measurement invariance, the one-factor model was acceptable across gender (Man = 875, Girl = 697). Additionally, Chinese AAQ-3 was significantly negatively correlated with positive mental health (life satisfaction, mindful attention awareness), significantly positively correlated with negative emotions (depression, anxiety, stress), and significantly positively correlated with AAQ–II and Brief Experiential Avoidance Questionnaire (BEAQ). Besides, Chinese AAQ-3 was the strongest predictor of depression, anxiety, stress and life satisfaction compared to the AAQ-II and BEAQ. However, according to the exploratory structural equation model, the Chinese AAQ-3 demonstrated excellent discriminate validity from negative emotions. Overall, the AAQ-3 modified the limitations of the existing measurements of experiential avoidance (i.e., AAQ-II and BEAQ) as it showed better convergent validity with positive mental health indicators, better discriminant validity with negative emotions, and higher incremental validity. Therefore, the Chinese AAQ-3 is a valid measurement tool for assessing the level of experiential avoidance or psychological flexibility in Chinese college students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our original 2021 SMR article "Non-Invariance? An Overstated Problem with Misconceived Causes" disputes the conclusiveness of non-invariance diagnostics in diverse cross-cultural settings. Our critique targets the increasingly fashionable use of Multi-Group Confirmatory Factor Analysis (MGCFA), especially in its mainstream version. We document—both by mathematical proof and an empirical illustration—that non-invariance is an arithmetic artifact of group mean disparity on closed-ended scales. Precisely this arti-factualness renders standard non-invariance markers inconclusive of measurement inequivalence under group-mean diversity. Using the Emancipative Values Index (EVI), OA-Section 3 of our original article demonstrates that such artifactual non-invariance is inconsequential for multi-item constructs' cross-cultural performance in nomological terms, that is, explanatory power and predictive quality. Given these limitations of standard non-invariance diagnostics, we challenge the unquestioned authority of invariance tests as a tool of measurement validation. Our critique provoked two teams of authors to launch counter-critiques. We are grateful to the two comments because they give us a welcome opportunity to restate our position in greater clarity. Before addressing the comments one by one, we reformulate our key propositions more succinctly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scholars study representative international surveys to understand cross-cultural differences in mentality patterns, which are measured via complex multi-item constructs. Methodologists in this field insist with increasing vigor that detecting "non-invariance" in how a construct's items associate with each other in different national samples is an infallible sign of encultured in-equivalences in how respondents understand the items. Questioning this claim, we demonstrate that a main source of non-invariance is the arithmetic of closed-ended scales in the presence of sample mean disparity. Since arithmetic principles are culture-unspecific, the non-invariance that these principles enforce in statistical terms is inconclusive of encultured in-equivalences in semantic terms. Because of this inconclusiveness, our evidence reveals furthermore that non-invariance is inconsequential for the cross-cultural functioning of multi-item constructs as concerns their nomological linkages to other variables of interest. We discuss the implications of these insights for measurement validation in cross-cultural settings with large sample mean disparity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measurement invariance-the notion that the measurement properties of a scale are equal across groups, contexts, or time-is an important assumption underlying much of psychology research. The traditional approach for evaluating measurement invariance is to fit a series of nested measurement models using multiple-group confirmatory factor analyses. However, traditional approaches are strict, vary across the field in implementation, and present multiplicity challenges, even in the simplest case of two groups under study. The alignment method was recently proposed as an alternative approach. This method is more automated, requires fewer decisions from researchers, and accommodates two or more groups. However, it has different assumptions, estimation techniques, and limitations from traditional approaches. To address the lack of accessible resources that explain the methodological differences and complexities between the two approaches, we introduce and illustrate both, comparing them side by side. First, we overview the concepts, assumptions, advantages, and limitations of each approach. Based on this overview, we propose a list of four key considerations to help researchers decide which approach to choose and how to document their analytical decisions in a preregistration or analysis plan. We then demonstrate our key considerations on an illustrative research question using an open dataset and provide an example of a completed preregistration. Our illustrative example is accompanied by an annotated analysis report that shows readers, step-by-step, how to conduct measurement invariance tests using R and Mplus. Finally, we provide recommendations for how to decide between and use each approach and next steps for methodological research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the 2020-2022 COVID-19 global pandemic many researchers had to adopt or switch to online testing, which emphasized the need for ensuring measurement equivalence across different administration methods. The aim of this study was to determine whether gender stereotype measure (VGSA scale; Vocational Gender Stereotype Attitudes Scale) is equivalent in two different computer-based administration modes: supervised in-class and unsupervised at-home web survey. In-class web survey participants were 219 primary (11 to 16 years old; M = 12.97; SD = 1.16) and 195 secondary (15 to 19 years old; M = 16.78; SD = 0.96) school students that were surveyed in the group setting during a regular school day in their computer classrooms while the researcher was present in the room. At-home web survey participants were 144 primary (10 to 15 years old; M = 11.60; SD = 1.43) and 212 secondary (14 to 19 years old; M = 16.78; SD = 1.22) school students that were surveyed individually through the web link in their homes that was administered to them via the school administration. Results confirmed VGSA scale’s high internal reliability (ɑin-class = .89; ɑat-home = .92), expected bi-factor structure (χ2in-class (12) = 22.56, p = .032; χ2at-home(12) = 17.24, p = .141), and scalar measurement invariance across administration methods (Δχ2(21) = 49.05, p < .001; ΔCFI = -.003; ΔTLI = -.001; ΔRMSEA = .009; ΔSRMR = .013).

In lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs), studies of interventions to reduce intimate partner violence (IPV) are expanding, yet measurement equivalence of the IPV construct—the primary outcome in these investigations—has not been established. We assessed the measurement equivalence of physical and sexual IPV item sets used in recent trials in LMICs and tested the impact of noninvariance on study inference. With data from four intervention trials (N = 3,545) completed before 2020, we used multiple-group confirmatory factor analysis to assess invariance across arms, over time, and across studies. We also calculated average treatment effects adjusting for covariate imbalance to assess concordance with published results. Most items functioned equivalently within studies at baseline and end line. Some evidence of longitudinal noninvariance was observed in at least one study arm in three studies, but did not meaningfully affect latent means or effect-size estimates. Evidence of partial invariance across studies at baseline and strict invariance over time was observed. Common measures of physical and sexual IPV were valid for measuring intervention impact in these samples. The study highlights the need for harmonized use of the tested scale, content validity assessments, and routine measurement equivalence testing to ensure valid inferences about intervention effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the Academic Encouragement Scale (AES) was revised in Chinese. A total of 645 Chinese undergraduates and graduate students participated in the test.The results show that there are 10 items in the Simplified Chinese Language Version of the Academic Encouragement Scale(AES-SC),both exploratory factor analysis(EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis(CFA) support the two factor model structure of challenge centered encouragement(AES-Challenge) and potential centered encouragement(AES-Potential), and the model has measurement equivalence across genders (male / female) and across stages of learning (undergraduate / postgraduate). The AES-SC was shown to have good psychometric properties for its use with Chinese undergraduates and postgraduates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: − Standardised questionnaires are used to measure the outcomes of citizenship education. − A prerequisite for cross-group comparisons based on these questionnaires is an assessment of measurement invariance. − This study used data from 6035 students from 87 Dutch primary schools to examine the measurement invariance of citizenship knowledge, attitude, and skill across sex, socioeconomic position and migration background. − The measurement invariance was sufficient in most cases. − Periodic assessment of measurement invariance in instruments measuring citizenship competences is important due to the dynamic nature of the construct. Purpose: Standardised questionnaires are used to measure the outcomes of citizenship education. These outcomes are often compared across groups to document different outcomes, for example, between boys and girls. A prerequisite for cross-group comparisons is an assessment of measurement invariance. Methodology: This study used data from 6035 students from 87 Dutch primary schools to examine the measurement invariance of the Citizenship Competences Questionnaire (Ten Dam et al., 2011). Dutch schools use this questionnaire to gain insight into students’ citizenship knowledge, attitudes, and skills. Measurement invariance was assessed across sex, socioeconomic position, and migration background. Findings: Measurement invariance was sufficient in most cases, allowing for cross-group comparisons of associations between latent constructs and their indicators, and in some cases, for cross-group comparisons of the latent means. We conclude by emphasising that periodic assessment of measurement invariance in instruments measuring citizenship competences is important due to the dynamic nature of the construct. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the measurement invariance of a brief self-report measure of childhood social-emotional competencies, the Middle Childhood Survey: Social-Emotional Learning (MCS-SEL), across demographic subgroups. Invariance was tested simultaneously among subgroups of children aged 11–12 years that were differentiated by sex (male, female) and main language spoken at home (English, not English). Multi-group confirmatory factor analysis evaluated structural and item-level invariance using two random, independent samples of 2,000 students (500 per demographic strata) selected by disproportionate sampling from the New South Wales Child Development Study (NSW-CDS) population cohort. The measure achieved full configural, metric, scalar, and residual invariance across all demographic subgroups, validating its utility for assessing middle childhood social-emotional competencies at a population-level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeEnd-stage renal disease patients' experience of care is an integral part of the assessment of the quality of the care provided at hemodialysis centers and is needed to promote patient choice, quality improvement, and accountability. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the In-Center Hemodialysis Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (ICH-CAHPS®) survey and its equivalence in different age, gender, race, and education subgroups.MethodsThe ICH-CAHPS survey was administered to 1454 patients from 32 dialysis facilities. For the characteristics compared, the sample had 756 participants younger than 65 years old, 739 men, 516 Black, 567 White, and 970 with less than high school diploma. Three different patient experience constructs were studied including nephrologist's communication and caring, quality of care and operations, and providing information to patients. We used item response theory analysis to examine the possibility of differential item functioning (DIF) by patient age, gender, race, and education separately after controlling for the other DIF characteristics and additional confounding variables including survey mode, mental, and general health status as well as duration on dialysis.ResultsThe three constructs studied were unidimensional and no major DIF was observed on the composites. Some non-equivalences were observed when confounders were not controlled for, suggesting that such covariates can be important factors in understanding the possibility of disparity in patients' experience.ConclusionsThe ICH-CAHPS is a promising survey to elicit hemodialysis patients' experience that has good psychometric properties and provides a standardized tool for assessing age, gender, race, or education disparity.

The Regulation of Eating Behavior Scale (REBS) is one of the most popular measures to assess why people regulate their eating behaviors. However, few studies have examined its psychometric properties and problems with discriminant validity have been identified in previous research. The present study (re)examined the factor structure and criterion-related validity of the REBS using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM), and bifactor (S-1) modeling in a sample of middle-aged women (N = 1447). We also examined longitudinal measurement invariance in a subsample of participants (n = 803) who responded to the survey 5 years later. The bifactor S-1 ESEM provided an excellent fit to the data and the factor loading pattern showed a well-defined global self-determination factor anchored in intrinsic motivation with decreasing contribution from the other items on the continuum. Relations between the global and specific motivation factors, food habits, binge eating, and BMI provided evidence of criterion-related validity. Longitudinal measurement invariance across time was also verified. Our results support the idea that the global factor represent a general quantity of self-determination rather than relative self-determination.

Highlights: • Standardised questionnaires are used to measure the outcomes of citizenship education. • A prerequisite for cross-group comparisons based on these questionnaires is an assessment of measurement invariance. • This study used data from 6035 students from 87 Dutch primary schools to examine the measurement invariance of citizenship knowledge, attitude, and skill across sex, socioeconomic position and migration background. • The measurement invariance was sufficient in most cases. • Periodic assessment of measurement invariance in instruments measuring citizenship competences is important due to the dynamic nature of the construct. Purpose: Standardised questionnaires are used to measure the outcomes of citizenship education. These outcomes are often compared across groups to document different outcomes, for example, between boys and girls. A prerequisite for cross-group comparisons is an assessment of measurement invariance. Methodology: This study used data from 6035 students from 87 Dutch primary schools to examine the measurement invariance of the Citizenship Competences Questionnaire (Ten Dam et al., 2011). Dutch schools use this questionnaire to gain insight into students’ citizenship knowledge, attitudes, and skills. Measurement invariance was assessed across sex, socioeconomic position, and migration background. Findings: Measurement invariance was sufficient in most cases, allowing for cross-group comparisons of associations between latent constructs and their indicators, and in some cases, for cross-group comparisons of the latent means. We conclude by emphasising that periodic assessment of measurement invariance in instruments measuring citizenship competences is important due to the dynamic nature of the construct.

Background: This study investigates the extent to which the GHQ-12 exhibits configural, metric and scalar invariance across six ethnic groups in Britain and Northern Ireland, using the UK Household Longitudinal Study (N = 35 410). Methods: A confirmatory factor analysis was carried out on a white British group in order to establish an adequate measurement model. Secondly, a multi-group confirmatory factor analysis was conducted in order to assess measurement invariance. A sensitivity analysis comparing summated and latent means across groups was carried out. Finally, revised estimates of scale reliability were derived using two different methods. Results: A one-factor model including correlated error terms on the negatively phrased items showed superior fit in all ethnic groups. Tests for equal factor loadings and intercepts also showed adequate fit demonstrating metric and scalar invariance. Latent and summated scale estimates of mean group differences were similar for all groups. Scale reliability using McDonald's ω is lower than when using the more conventional Cronbach's α. Reliability across groups is reasonably consistent. Conclusions: We find that the GHQ-12 does not display obvious bias in regard to ethnic groups in the UK and that valid comparisons across these groups can be made for the purposes of population research. Caution is needed when using as a screening tool for individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A significant percentage of US households have at least one pet. A recent poll found that over 90% of pet owners feel their pet is a family member, suggesting the definition of "family" should include pets. Some studies have found that pet ownership has physical, mental, and social health benefits for the owner, although other research has not found this. It is thought this variability is due to methodological issues. A significant issue identified is measurement problems, including a lack of validity and reliability evidence. Measurement equivalence is an important type of this evidence, and Black/African Americans should be included in research on this as they are an understudied, historically marginalized population. The Family Bondedness Scale (FBS) is a recently developed measure of the degree to which a pet owner feels emotionally bonded to their pet in a manner comparable to their emotional bonding with a human member of their family. This paper describes a measurement equivalence study of the FBS between Black/African American (n = 496) and White (n = 405) pet-owning populations. Results of multi-group confirmatory factor analyses with covariates were consistent with configural, metric, and threshold equivalence between Black/African American and White pet owners. The use of this measure in research and professional practice for numerous professions, including veterinary medicine, social work, veterinary social work, psychology, and other professions is considered. Implications for future measurement equivalence and validity research on scores from the FBS are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measurement invariance (MI) is essential to bolstering validity arguments behind psychometric instruments (Zumbo, 2007). Nonetheless, very few second language (L2) anxiety scales, including the most widely used L2 anxiety questionnaire—the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS; Horwitz et al., 1986)—have been tested for MI. The present paper seeks to address this deficiency in the literature (a) by demonstrating why this procedure is key to enhancing our understanding of the latent phenomenon in question, particularly in relation to different language learning contexts, (b) by outlining the main stages of MI testing with specific recommendations for L2 scale developers and users, (c) by providing commendable examples of the application of MI in applied linguistics research in order to illustrate the potential of this technique, and (d) by making a case for employing MI in future validation studies, thereby promoting methodologically sound research practices in the context of anxiety scales and elsewhere in applied linguistics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To establish the factor structure of the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire for Children and Adolescents (ERQ-CA) in Chinese and American adolescent samples; to assess measurement invariance of the ERQ-CA in Chinese and American adolescent samples and latent means across early adolescents from two diverse cultural settings. The ERQ-CA was administered to 1221 Chinese adolescents (49.3% males) and 1148 American adolescents (50.1% males), and multi-group confirmatory factor analysis was performed to evaluate measurement invariance.(1) Multi-group confirmatory factor analysis of the ERQ-CA demonstrated full configural invariance, full metric invariance, partial scalar invariance, and partial strict invariance. (2) The latent variable mean comparisons revealed significant differences between the two samples; specifically, Chinese adolescents' mean scores on the latent variables of cognitive reappraisal (CR) and expressive suppression (ES) were significantly higher than American adolescents' scores. The findings demonstrated that the ERQ-CA displays appropriate measurement invariance across Chinese and America adolescents and that Chinese adolescents reported higher scores on CR and ES. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although Loss of Control (LOC) is a transdiagnostic factor in eating pathology, there are few standalone assessments of LOC. The objective of this study was to evaluate the uni-dimensionality and measurement equivalence of the Eating Loss of Control Scale (ELOCS). Confirmatory factor analyses were used to achieve a well-fitting uni-dimensional model in clinical (N = 226) and non-clinical (N = 476) samples. Measurement equivalence was tested in a factor analytic framework, and effect sizes were computed to evaluate the impact of non-equivalence. A well-fitting model was achieved in both samples after the removal of 4 items. The instrument showed configural equivalence but not metric equivalence. Results suggest that the ELOCS is a reliable and valid measure of LOC in clinical and non-clinical samples. However, while the nature of the LOC construct is similar across binge eating and non-clinical participants, comparisons of ELOCS across these groups are affected by measurement non-equivalence. This research also revealed novel insights into the relative sensitivity of model fitting and effect size approaches to investigating measurement equivalence.

Research in personality and organizational psychology has begun to investigate a novel evaluative trait known as perceived normality, defined as an overall perception that one is normal (vs. strange or weird). The current work evaluates a brief measure of this trait (i.e., a "weirdness scale"), extending past work by assessing both self-reports and peer reports of these normality evaluations. Results confirm the measurement equivalence of self- and peer-reports of perceived weirdness, and discriminant validity of self- and peer-reports of perceived weirdness from Big Five traits. A multitrait-multisource analysis further reveals that trait loadings are larger than self-report and peer-report method loadings for the measure of perceived weirdness. Implications for measurement of self-perceptions and social perceptions of weirdness/normality are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Regulation of Eating Behavior Scale (REBS) is one of the most popular measures to assess why people regulate their eating behaviors. However, few studies have examined its psychometric properties and problems with discriminant validity have been identified in previous research. The present study (re)examined the factor structure and criterion-related validity of the REBS using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM), and bifactor (S-1) modeling in a sample of middle-aged women (N = 1447). We also examined longitudinal measurement invariance in a subsample of participants (n = 803) who responded to the survey 5 years later. The bifactor S-1 ESEM provided an excellent fit to the data and the factor loading pattern showed a well-defined global self-determination factor anchored in intrinsic motivation with decreasing contribution from the other items on the continuum. Relations between the global and specific motivation factors, food habits, binge eating, and BMI provided evidence of criterion-related validity. Longitudinal measurement invariance across time was also verified. Our results support the idea that the global factor represent a general quantity of self-determination rather than relative self-determination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bartin University Journal of Faculty of Education is the property of Bartin University Journal of Faculty of Education and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Survey infrastructure synergies can support the sustainability of existing European survey programmes by maximising resources and expertise. The study uses the scale of gender role attitudes (GRA) surveyed in the fifth wave of the European Values Study (EVS2017) as an example to explore how such cooperation could produce improved measurements in a context of methodological innovation. The EVS implemented tools and strategies that may affect cross-sectional comparability, such as the translation approach and the use of mixed-modes as well as the increased standardisation of the procedures, documentation and monitoring. After describing the revision of the GRA scale of EVS2017 and assessing its content validity, the study discusses its comparability. By applying multi-group confirmatory factor analysis and the recently established alignment method, measurement equivalence is reached both cross-sectionally and across modes of data collection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The primary aim of this study was to assess and adjust for measurement non-equivalence (bias) by sex, race/ethnicity, and co-occurring social identities (sex x race/ethnicity) for the Marijuana Effect Expectancies Questionnaire-Brief (MEEQ-B) among Black, Latinx, and Non-Latinx white youth. The second aim was to determine how group comparisons change after accounting for possible measurement bias., Method: Black, Latinx, and Non-Latinx white youth from the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development Study Follow-up 3 (n=8,982; mean age=12.91; SD=0.65; 47.28% female; 15.03% Black, 22.93% Latinx, 62.04% Non-Latinx white) completed the MEEQ-B. Moderated nonlinear factor analysis (MNLFA) generated positive and negative expectancies factor scores accounting for non-equivalence. Analyses contrasted group differences by sex, race/ethnicity, and these co-occurring social identities using original (unadjusted) versus MNLFA-generated scores adjusted for measurement non-equivalence., Results: Measurement non-equivalence was observed for positive and negative expectancies across sex, race/ ethnicity and their co-occurring social identities. MNLFA revealed between-group differences at the factor and item level. Further, comparisons of original (unadjusted) and MNLFA-generated adjusted scores revealed that unadjusted scores underestimated or did not detect some group differences in positive expectancies identified using adjusted scores, and unadjusted scores underestimated how much lower negative expectancies were in Black and Latinx relative to non-Latinx white youth., Conclusions: Results highlight the need for caution when interpreting scores of a measure like the MEEQ-B that has not undergone measurement equivalence testing and demonstrate how failing to adjust for non-equivalence can result in biased estimates of positive and negative expectancies, particularly when used with diverse populations.

Free will is assumed to be the core of an individual's self-concept. Belief in free will has been studied extensively and was found to be correlated with many behavioural and psychological outcomes. Although developed and validated in the West, the Free will and Determinism Plus (FAD-Plus) scale has been translated, used, and interpreted as a measurement of free will beliefs in multiple cultures. However, the cross-cultural measurement invariance of FAD-Plus has not been examined. Given the cultural differences in understanding the concept of 'free will', items of FAD-Plus may have different interpretations in different cultures, which may compromise its cross-cultural measurement invariance. To provide empirical evidence for the lack of cross-cultural measurement invariance, we collected data in China and analyzed these data together with open datasets of FAD-Plus in three other languages: Japanese, French and English. We only found partial measurement invariance between the Chinese and English datasets, as well as the Japanese and English datasets. These results provided the first assessment of cross-cultural measure invariance of FAD-Plus. We discussed the potential implications of the current study for future studies in the field., Competing Interests: We declare we have no competing interests., (© 2024 The Author(s).)