Applications of IRT Models to Individual Personality Trait Structures

New Evidence on the Construct Validity of the ASI-3 and the Dimensional Conceptualization of Trait Anxiety Sensitivity From IRT Modeling

European Journal of Psychological Assessment ◽

10.1027/1015-5759/a000284 ◽

2017 ◽

Vol 33 (3) ◽

pp. 181-189 ◽

Cited By ~ 2

Author(s):

Christoph J. Kemper ◽

Michael Hock

Keyword(s):

Construct Validity ◽

Anxiety Sensitivity ◽

Latent Class ◽

Dimensional Structure ◽

Sensitivity Index ◽

Response Scale ◽

Established Risk Factor ◽

Irt Models ◽

Level Data ◽

Extreme Response

Abstract. Anxiety Sensitivity (AS) denotes the tendency to fear anxiety-related sensations. Trait AS is an established risk factor for anxiety pathology. The Anxiety Sensitivity Index-3 (ASI-3) is a widely used measure of AS and its three most robust dimensions with well-established construct validity. At present, the dimensional conceptualization of AS, and thus, the construct validity of the ASI-3 is challenged. A latent class structure with two distinct and qualitatively different forms, an adaptive form (normative AS) and a maladaptive form (AS taxon, predisposing for anxiety pathology) was postulated. Item Response Theory (IRT) models were applied to item-level data of the ASI-3 in an attempt to replicate previous findings in a large nonclinical sample (N = 2,603) and to examine possible interpretations for the latent discontinuity observed. Two latent classes with a pattern of distinct responses to ASI-3 items were found. However, classes were indicative of participant’s differential use of the response scale (midpoint and extreme response style) rather than differing in AS content (adaptive and maladaptive AS forms). A dimensional structure of AS and the construct validity of the ASI-3 was supported.

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The Vienna Risk-Taking Test - Traffic

Journal of Individual Differences ◽

10.1027/1614-0001.28.4.198 ◽

2007 ◽

Vol 28 (4) ◽

pp. 198-204 ◽

Cited By ~ 11

Author(s):

Andreas Hergovich ◽

Martin E. Arendasy ◽

Markus Sommer ◽

Bettina Bognar

Keyword(s):

Construct Validity ◽

Personality Trait ◽

Risk Taking ◽

Personality Test ◽

Educational Levels ◽

Item Level ◽

Degree Of Risk ◽

And Gender ◽

Homeostasis Theory

Abstract. The study reports results regarding the dimensionality and construct validity of a newly developed, objective, video-based personality test that assesses the willingness to take risks in traffic situations. On the basis of the theory of risk homeostasis developed by Wilde, different traffic situations with varying degrees of objective danger were filmed. During the test the respondents are asked to indicate at which point the action that is contingent on the described situation will become too dangerous to carry out. Latencies at the item level were recorded as a measure for the subjectively accepted degree of a person's willingness to take risks in the sense of the risk homeostasis theory by Wilde. In a study on 274 people with different educational levels and gender, the unidimensionality of the test as corresponding to the latency model by Scheiblechner was investigated. The results indicate that the Vienna Risk-Taking Test - Traffic assesses a unidimensional, latent personality trait that can be interpreted as subjectively accepted degree of risk (target risk value).

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