Anger Expression Scale for Children: Validation of a Two-Factor Model Among Fourth and Fifth Graders

• In Event: 28.039 - Investigating Validity and Validation of Assessments

Abstract

Early identification of anger-related problems is key to providing timely programming to students at-risk for behavioral and mental health concerns. There are few measurement tools, however, with strong psychometric properties to assess anger expression, especially for students in upper elementary grades. Fourth and fifth grade is an important identification period before students enter middle school, when they are at greater risk for the onset/intensification of behavioral problems. Thus, we examined the factor structure of the Anger Expression Scale for Children (AESC), a self-report measure, using a sample of 2,020 fourth and fifth-grade students. Results revealed support for a modified two-factor model, with a general anger-expression factor and anger-control factor. We discuss implications for use of the AESC in schools.

Authors

• Michelle Cumming, Florida International University

• Daniel V Poling, University of Florida

• Stephen W. Smith, University of Florida