A Rasch Analysis of the WhatsApp Usage Scale in a Turkish University Student Sample

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 10
  In Poster Session: Applications of the Rasch Measurement Model

Abstract

WhatsApp has become a globally-popular messaging app. In Turkey, WhatsApp is the preferred and primary method of communication among younger generations especially university students. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of WhatsApp Usage Scale (WUS) using Rasch Analysis in a sample of 130 Turkish university students. Items were examined using Rasch Principal Components Analysis (PCA) to assess unidimensionality. The Likert category structure was also investigated. Results from this study demonstrated psychometric support for four main contrasts: (1) Usage Reason, (2) Positive Opinions, (3) Negative Opinions, and (4) Addiction. The WUS can be used as a reliable and valid scale in a growing research area.

Authors

• Ilker Soyturk, Kent State University

• Riza Memis, Kent State University

• Jason D. Schenker, Kent State University