Development and Validation of the Relative Disadvantage Tool

• In Event: Data, Measurement, and Inequality

Abstract

Introduction: Racial disparities exist in virtually every stage of criminal-legal processing. Yet, there remains limited research on how relative disadvantage—reflective of structural racism—influences disparities in the criminal-legal system. We aimed to develop a psychometrically sound tool to measure relative disadvantage related to the disproportionate likelihood of becoming system-involved. Method: Initial item development occurred through a review of empirical literature, discussion with community representatives, and an iterative group-based approach. To develop and validate the tool, we administered items in two samples of U.S. adults (N = 510 and N = 209) via Qualtrics Research Services. We conducted exploratory factor analysis (EFA) using oblique rotation, confirmatory factory analysis (CFA) using a split-half sample, and secondary CFA in an independent sample. We developed a short-and long-form version and examined the construct and criterion validity of both tools. Results: EFA produced a 4-factor solution with 20 items, with CFA confirming factor structure stability. Results supported reliability and validity of the long-form tool across samples. The short-form version demonstrated similar psychometric properties across samples. Conclusions: The Relative Disadvantage Tool (RDT) is a reliable and valid tool for measuring the socioecological forces that bring people of color into the criminal-legal system at higher rates.

Authors

• Evan Lowder, George Mason University

• Spencer Lawson, UMASS Medical School

• Ebony Ruhland, Rutgers University

• Ashley Elizabeth Rodriguez, Pennsylvania State University

• Peyton Frye, George Mason University

• Madeline McPherson, George Mason University