Developing a Measure of Care-Efficacy

• In Event: Poster Session 20
  In Poster Session: Division E Human Development Poster Session

Abstract

Care-Efficacy, a person’s belief about their ability to help another person in need of assistance, is one component of a recently developed model of the Care dimension within moral theory. This form of perceived efficacy is important due to its implications regarding a person’s caring behavior toward other individuals. The purpose of this study was to develop a measure of this new construct. After initial analysis, one factor emerged which was interpreted to be Care-Efficacy. Scores on the resulting scale yielded a high reliability, and initial evidence of the Care Efficacy Scale’s validity was provided through comparison with the General Self Efficacy Scale and the Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale. Test-retest reliability was also examined through additional data collection and analysis.

Authors

• Chris M. Ray, North Dakota State University

• Kevin J. Fink, Oklahoma City Community College

• Dale R. Fuqua, Oklahoma State University