Download full text
(external source)
Citation Suggestion
Please use the following Persistent Identifier (PID) to cite this document:
https://doi.org/10.1186/s42409-020-00015-2
Exports for your reference manager
Factorial validity and measurement invariance across gender groups of the German version of the Interpersonal Reactivity Index
[journal article]
Abstract The Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) is the most widely used measure of empathy, but its factorial validity has been questioned. The present research investigates the factorial validity of the German adaptation of the IRI, the "Saarbrücker Persönlichkeitsfragebogen SPF-IRI". Confirmatory Factor ... view more
The Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) is the most widely used measure of empathy, but its factorial validity has been questioned. The present research investigates the factorial validity of the German adaptation of the IRI, the "Saarbrücker Persönlichkeitsfragebogen SPF-IRI". Confirmatory Factor Analyses (CFA) and Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling (ESEM) were used to test the theoretically predicted four-factor model. Across two subsamples ESEM outperformed CFA. Substantial cross-loadings were evident in ESEM. Measurement invariance (MI) across gender groups was tested using ESEM in the combined sample. Strict MI (invariant factor loadings, intercepts, residuals) could be established, and variances and covariances were also equal. Differences for latent means were evident. Women scored higher on fantasy, empathic concern, and personal distress. No significant differences were found for perspective taking. Mean differences were due to real differences on latent variables and not a result of measurement bias. Results support the factorial validity of the German SPF-IRI. The heterogeneity of empathy and the unclear differentiation between cognitive and emotional aspects might be a source for the unclear differentiation of scales.... view less
Keywords
empathy; measurement instrument; validity; personality traits; scale construction
Classification
Methods and Techniques of Data Collection and Data Analysis, Statistical Methods, Computer Methods
Free Keywords
Interpersonal Reactivity Index; factorial validity; measurement invariance
Document language
English
Publication Year
2020
Page/Pages
p. 1-8
Journal
Measurement Instruments for the Social Sciences (2020)
ISSN
2523-8930
Status
Published Version; peer reviewed