Measuring indigenous household resilience to global environmental changes: Psychometrics and face validity scale development

Abstract

Background

This study developed the factor structure of an Indigenous Household Resilience Scale (IHRS) within a state-recognized tribal community facing extreme environmental threats. The IHRS assesses Indigenous people's subjective appraisal of resilience at the household level, which is crucial as decisions such as relocation due to repeated disasters and chronic land loss occur at this level rather than at individual or community levels.

Methods

This study employed a Tribally led participatory sequential mixed-methods approach. We collected survey data from tribal citizens (N = 119) along the Gulf Coast. Initial scale development involved a literature review, face validity, and community engagement, resulting in 17 indicators across three constructs. Researchers followed collaborative protocols and received appropriate institutional approvals.

Results

Guided by a series of Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), item reduction and restructuring led to an 11-item scale into three factors: Cultural Continuity, Relational Place-based Worldview, and Community Engagement. The adjusted CFA model demonstrated good fit indices (a non-significant χ² test; RMSEA = 0.05; CFI = 0.94; SRMR = 0.06), with moderate to strong inter-factor correlations (ranging from 0.62 to 0.71), supporting construct distinctiveness. The overall scale showed acceptable internal consistency (ω = 0.80).

Implications

These findings provide preliminary evidence for measuring household resilience within an Indigenous community and contribute to Indigenous scholarship. This scale is particularly relevant for social and behavioral health practitioners and researchers working with Indigenous peoples who face environmental challenges, as it enhances culturally sensitive coping strategies and identifies factors promoting resilience at the household level.