Development of a Valid and Reliable Self-Report Instrument for Adolescent Socioeconomic Status

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session Eight
  In Roundtable Session: Exploring Issues in Music Education (Table 13)

Abstract

Music educators have become aware of underrepresentation students from low-socioeconomic (SES) backgrounds in elective music courses. However, researchers tend to avoid measuring socioeconomic status with younger populations due to misperceptions students may have regarding their social standing. A reliable and valid self-report measure of socioeconomic status would provide useful context related to music student enrollment decisions. In these studies, I developed and tested a reliable measure of SES among a sample of seventh- and eighth-grade instrumental music students (α = .82). In a second study, I extend the survey to include subjective social status and comparison items, a parent verification process, and conduct a CFA to assess potential factor structures before making a final recommendation for adolescent SES self-report measurement.

Author

• Jacob Holster, Pennsylvania State University
  Presenting Author