Psychometric Properties and Convergent Validity of the Chinese Version of the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale.

Abstract

The present study used the Rasch rating scale model (RSM) to reassess the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of Rosenberg self-esteem scale (RSES) among 501 Grade 10 students in Taiwan. The reliability, dimensionality, and differential item functioning were examined. The dimensionality assumption was met after excluding item 8 ("I wish I could have more respect for myself."). The successive response categories for item 7 ("I feel that I am a person of worth, at least on an equal plane with others.") were not located in an expected order. After eliminating items 7 and 8 from analysis, the remaining 8-item RSES had acceptable fit statistics, good content coverage and high categorical omega, Rasch person and item reliability. The five response categories performed well; evidence for convergent validity was established through the high correlation between RSES and psychological being scores. Implications and recommendations for instrument users are discussed.