Dimensional Structure and Cross-Cultural Measurement Invariance of a Self-Esteem Scale Using Multidimensional IRT

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Wednesday 11:45am
  In Poster Session: Poster Session I -- AERA Division D Section 1: Measurement, Psychometrics, and Assessment

Abstract

This study applied multidimensional Item Response Theory (IRT) to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) among 861 Iraqi university students. Findings supported a correlated two-factor model separating positively and negatively worded items, with evidence of local dependence and method effects. Differential Item Functioning (DIF) analyses revealed item bias by gender but not academic specialization, indicating partial measurement invariance. These results highlight the impact of cultural and linguistic context on item interpretation and score validity. By employing rigorous IRT methods, this research contributes to culturally responsive assessment and offers recommendations for equitable measurement of self-esteem in diverse educational settings.

Authors

• Talal Alzabidi, University of North Carolina Greensboro

• Reben Ramadhan Ramadhan Saleh, Lobachevsky State University