This study compares automated methods to develop short forms of psychometric scales. Obtaining a short form that has both adequate internal structure and strong validity with respect to relationships with other variables is difficult with traditional methods of short-form development. Metaheuristic algorithms can select items for short forms while…

A readily applicable procedure is discussed that allows evaluation of the discrepancy between the popular coefficient alpha and the reliability coefficient of a scale with second-order factorial structure that is frequently of relevance in empirical educational and psychological research. The approach is developed within the framework of the…

Many psychological scales written in the Likert format include reverse worded (RW) items in order to control acquiescence bias. However, studies have shown that RW items often contaminate the factor structure of the scale by creating one or more method factors. The present study examines an alternative scale format, called the Expanded format,…

The primary aim of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the scores on a version for children of the Carver and White Behavioral Inhibition and Activation scales (the BIS-BAS scales). This involved administering the BIS-BAS scales, the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, the Junior Eysenck Personality Questionnaire…

Kaiser and Michael reported a formula for factor scores giving an internal consistency reliability and its square root, the domain validity. Using this formula is inappropriate if variables are included which have trival weights rather than salient weights for the factor for which the score is being computed. (Author/RL)

Illustrates a multivariate approach to item analysis. Previous formulation is extended by investigating techniques simultaneously taking into account scale variance with the goal of reducing the average correlation between scales. Study examines problems in determining optimum values for combinations of item parameters selected for personality…

This paper examines the properties of the Item Efficiency Index proposed by Neill and Jackson (1976; EJ 137 077) for minimum redundancy item analysis. (Author/BW)

Research on the semantic differential technique has provided evidence for variance in Osgood's formulation of dimensions of connotative meaning. Retest data based on Piotrowski's original sample is reported. Results indicate support for stability and consistency of the Evaluation dimension. Moderate consistency was found in scales comprising the…

To assess the stability of the factor structure of the Instructional Improvement Questionnaire (IIQ), factor analyses were run for 1973, 1974, and 1975 results, partialling out three variables: expected grade, percent taking the course as an elective, and student's year. The factors were stable over the three years. (Author/BW)

The construct validity of scores from the Bem Sex-Role Inventory was studied using confirmatory factor analysis methods on data from 791 subjects. Measurement characteristics of the long and short forms were studied, with the short form yielding more reliable scores, as has previously been indicated. (Author/SLD)

The consistency of factor structure of Osgood's semantic differential was examined in three different adult samples, aged 18 to 87. Three different concepts were used: the University of West Florida, Myself, and Death. Results indicated consistency for the evaluation factor and moderate consistency for potency and activity. (Author/GDC)

Underlying constructs of the Nowicki-Strickland Locus of Control Scale for Children (NSLOCSC) were identified through factor analysis and cross-validated with two similar samples of high school students. The two resultant dimensions appeared to measure Social Control (six items) and Self Control (two items). (Author/GK)

College students were administered the Multidimensional-Multiattributional Causality Scale (MMCS). Most of the 3-item subscales had adequate reliabilities. A factor analysis of intercorrelations of responses revealed three pure factors and three ambiguous factors. Results provide partial support for reliability and factorial validity of the MMCS.…

This study examined selected pyschometric properties of the Health Locus of Control Scale (HLOC) (Wallston, Wallston, Kaplan, and Maides, 1976). Specifically, the HLOC factor structure, factor score reliabilities, and correlations with social desirability were investigated. (Author)

The psychometric properties of a revised version of Holland's Vocational Preference Inventory were assessed using federal government employees. Factor analyses, interscale correlations, measures of internal consistency, and criterion group profiles are presented. Evidence was supportive of the validity of the revised form. (Author/BW)