Measuring self-esteem after spinal cord injury: Development, validation and psychometric characteristics of the SCI-QOL Self-esteem item bank and short form

Model System:

Reference Type:

Accession No.:

Journal:

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Article describes the development and psychometric properties of the Spinal Cord Injury-Quality of Life (SCI-QOL) Self-esteem item bank. Using a mixed-methods design, a self-esteem item bank was developed and tested through the use of focus groups with individuals with SCI and clinicians with expertise in SCI, cognitive interviews, and item response theory-based analytic approaches, including tests of model fit, differential item functioning (DIF) and precision. A pool of 30 items was tested at several medical institutions across the United States, including 5 SCI Model System centers and one Veterans Affairs medical center. A total of 717 individuals with SCI completed the self-esteem items. A unidimensional model was observed and measurement precision was good. Eleven items were flagged for DIF; however, effect sizes were negligible with little practical impact on score estimates. The final calibrated item bank resulted in 23 retained items. This study indicates that the SCI-QOL Self-esteem item bank represents a psychometrically robust measurement tool. Short-form items are also suggested and computer adaptive tests are available.

Author(s):

Participating Centers: