Volume 29, Issue 5, 2020
DOI: 10.24205/03276716.2020.1055
Development and Psychometric Properties of the Adversity Quotient Scale: An Analysis using Rasch Model and Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Abstract
Adversity Quotient (AQ) is a new concept in facing the challenge for success. Previous studies have shown very limited instruments in measuring AQ such as the lack of empirical evidence on psychometric properties for AQ items, especially for testing with different types of statistical testing theory. The overall aim of this paper is to develop and assess the psychometric properties of the AQ items for technical students using the Rasch model and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). A survey with a quantitative approach was employed to measure the four main constructs of AQ, namely Control, Ownership, Reach, and Endurance, whereby the questionnaires were based on a four-point Likert Scale. The respondents include 1,845 polytechnic students from five polytechnics who were selected using the proportionate clustered multistage stratified sampling technique. The response rate was 97.52 percent with 1,845 returned and usable questionnaires for data analysis from a total of 1,892 questionnaires distributed to the respondents. A two-step procedure involving the Rasch model and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used for the statistical analysis via WINSTEPS 3.71 and AMOS 21 software. The findings indicated that 15 items were statistically proven with good psychometric properties to measure AQ for both analyses. The items also fulfilled all of the main assumptions of Rasch including item fit, unidimensionality, local independence, item polarity, and gender differential item functioning analysis. The measurement model using CFA provided satisfactory model fit of χ2/df with 3.874 (χ2= 321.527, p<0.05, df =83), RMSEA = 0.039, GFI = 0.977, RMR = 0.013, AGFI = 0.966, CFI = 0.950, TLI = 0.936, and NFI = 0. 933. This instrument can help the stakeholders identify the person with problematic AQ for guidance besides guiding the practitioners to holistically investigate the pattern of AQ. Future researchers can also focus more on the different adversities for the variety group with an emphasis on convergent and discriminant validity as well as qualitative approaches to further explore the adversities. In essence, this paper particularly provides new insights into policymaking and practices improvement for AQ self-development measurement.
Keywords
Adversity Quotient; Instrument; Polytechnic Students; Development; Psychometric.