scholarly journals The HEX-ACO-18: Developing an age-invariant HEXACO short scale using Ant Colony Optimization

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gabriel Olaru ◽  
Kristin Jankowsky
Keyword(s):  
Ant Colony Optimization ◽  
Measurement Invariance ◽  
Short Form ◽  
Ant Colony ◽  
Model Fit ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Model Estimation ◽  
Adequate Model ◽  
Short Scale ◽  
Sampling Procedures

In this study, we developed an age-invariant 18-item short form of the HEXACO Personality Inventory for use in developmental personality research. We employed a combination of the item selection procedure ant colony optimization (ACO) and the model estimation approach local structural equation modeling (LSEM). ACO is a metaheuristic algorithm that selects and evaluates items based on the quality of the resulting short scale, thus allowing for the direct optimization of criteria that can only be estimated based on combinations of items, such as model fit and measurement invariance across age. LSEM allows for model estimation and measurement invariance testing across a continuous age variable by weighting participants based on their age, rather than splitting the sample into artificial age groups. Using a HEXACO-100 dataset of N = 6,419 participants ranging from 16 to 90 years of age, we selected a short form optimized for model fit, measurement invariance, facet coverage, and balance of item keying. The resulting HEX ACO 18 short scale showed adequate model fit, scalar measurement invariance across age, and covered three out of four facets from each HEXACO trait domain. Furthermore, the usefulness and versatility of the item and person sampling procedures ACO and LSEM is demonstrated.

Developing Cross-Cultural Short Scales Using Ant Colony Optimization

Assessment ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 28 (1) ◽  
pp. 199-210
Author(s):  
Gabriel Olaru ◽  
Daniel Danner
Keyword(s):  
Ant Colony Optimization ◽  
Measurement Invariance ◽  
Big Five ◽  
Short Form ◽  
Full Scale ◽  
Cross Cultural ◽  
Model Fit ◽  
Item Selection ◽  
Big Five Inventory ◽  
Short Scale

This article demonstrates how the metaheuristic item selection algorithm ant colony optimization (ACO) can be used to develop short scales for cross-cultural surveys. Traditional item selection approaches typically select items based on expert-guided assessment of item-level information in the full scale, such as factor loadings or item correlations with relevant outcomes. ACO is an optimization procedure that instead selects items based on the properties of the resulting short models, such as model fit and reliability. Using a sample of 5,567 respondents from five countries, we selected a 15-item short form of the Big Five Inventory–2 with the goal of optimizing model fit and measurement invariance in exploratory structural equation modeling, as well as reliability, construct coverage, and criterion-related validity of the scale. We compared the psychometric properties of the new short scale with the Big Five Inventory–2 extra-short form developed with a traditional approach. Whereas both short scales maintained the construct coverage and criterion-related validity of the full scale, the ACO short scale achieved better model fit and measurement invariance across countries than the Big Five Inventory–2 extra-short form. As such, ACO can be a useful tool to identify items for cross-cultural comparisons of personality.

Ant Colony Optimization and Local Weighted Structural Equation Modeling. A Tutorial on Novel Item and Person Sampling Procedures for Personality Research

2019 ◽  
Vol 33 (3) ◽  
pp. 400-419 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gabriel Olaru ◽  
Ulrich Schroeders ◽  
Johanna Hartung ◽  
Oliver Wilhelm
Keyword(s):  
Structural Equation Modeling ◽  
Ant Colony Optimization ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
Personality Development ◽  
Measurement Model ◽  
Ant Colony ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Moderator Variable ◽  
Measurement Models ◽  
Sampling Procedures

Measurement in personality development faces many psychometric problems. First, theory–based measurement models do not fit the empirical data in terms of traditional confirmatory factor analysis. Second, measurement invariance across age, which is necessary for a meaningful interpretation of age–associated personality differences, is rarely accomplished. Finally, continuous moderator variables, such as age, are often artificially categorized. This categorization leads to bias when interpreting differences in personality across age. In this tutorial, we introduce methods to remedy these problems. We illustrate how Ant Colony Optimization can be used to sample indicators that meet prespecified demands such as model fit. Further, we use Local Structural Equation Modeling to resample and weight subjects to study differences in the measurement model across age as a continuous moderator variable. We also provide a detailed illustration for both tools with the Neuroticism scale of the openly available International Personality Item Pool – NEO inventory using data from the UK sample ( N = 15 827). Combined, both tools can remedy persistent problems in research on personality and its development. In addition to a step–by–step illustration, we provide commented syntax for both tools. © 2019 European Association of Personality Psychology

scholarly journals The Military Suicide Research Consortium Common Data Elements: An Examination of Measurement Invariance Across Current Service Members and Veterans

Assessment ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 26 (6) ◽  
pp. 963-975 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ian H. Stanley ◽  
Jennifer M. Buchman-Schmitt ◽  
Carol Chu ◽  
Megan L. Rogers ◽  
Anna R. Gai ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Measurement Invariance ◽  
Model Fit ◽  
Service Members ◽  
Common Data Elements ◽  
Adequate Model ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Research Consortium ◽  
Data Elements ◽  
Military Suicide ◽  
The Military

Suicide rates within the U.S. military are elevated, necessitating greater efforts to identify those at increased risk. This study utilized a multigroup confirmatory factor analysis to examine measurement invariance of the Military Suicide Research Consortium Common Data Elements (CDEs) across current service members ( n = 2,015), younger veterans (<35 years; n = 377), and older veterans (≥35 years; n = 1,001). Strong factorial invariance was supported with adequate model fit observed for current service members, younger veterans, and older veterans. The structures of all models were generally comparable with few exceptions. The Military Suicide Research Consortium CDEs demonstrate at least adequate model fit for current military service members and veterans, regardless of age. Thus, the CDEs can be validly used across military and veteran populations. Given similar latent structures, research findings in one group may inform clinical and policy decision making for the other.

scholarly journals Validation of a Three-Item Short Form of the Modified Weight Bias Internalization Scale (WBIS-3) in the German Population

Obesity Facts ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 13 (6) ◽  
pp. 560-571
Author(s):  
Sören Kliem ◽  
Hans-Christian Puls ◽  
Andreas Hinz ◽  
Anette Kersting ◽  
Elmar Brähler ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Measurement Invariance ◽  
Internal Consistency ◽  
Gender Discrimination ◽  
Weight Status ◽  
Short Form ◽  
Population Sample ◽  
Weight Bias ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
German Population ◽  
Weight Bias Internalization

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Individuals suffering from overweight or obesity frequently experience weight-based stigmatization. The widespread belief that weight is a matter of personal will and self-control results in various weight-based stereotypes (e.g., laziness, lack of self-discipline, or neglect). <b><i>Objective:</i></b> Based on the modified version of the Weight Bias Internalization Scale (WBIS-M), a short form for the economic assessment of weight bias internalization in the general population was compiled and validated. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> A three-item short form (WBIS-3) was derived based on data from a representative sample of the German population (<i>n</i> = 1,092). This new short form was validated in a second representative population sample (<i>n</i> = 2,513). Item characteristics and internal consistency were obtained. Measurement invariance was tested. Construct validity was established via the correlation with theoretically related constructs (depression, anxiety, eating behavior, discrimination, weight status). To establish scale validity, all analyses were performed for the whole sample as well as for the subsample of individuals with overweight. Age- and gender-specific population norms were provided. <b><i>Results:</i></b> The WBIS-3 exhibited excellent psychometric properties. Internal consistency was α = 0.92. Strong measurement invariance was confirmed regarding age, gender, discrimination, and weight status in both the whole sample as well as the overweight subsample. <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> The WBIS-3 constitutes a valid and economical tool for the assessment of weight bias internalization in epidemiological contexts. Measurement invariance allows for an unbiased comparison of means, correlation coefficients, and path coefficients within structural equation modeling across groups.

Attachment and Wellness Among Latinx Immigrants: Meaning in Life, Belonging, and Hope as Mediators

2020 ◽  
Vol 48 (7) ◽  
pp. 986-1015
Author(s):  
Andrew J. Shelton ◽  
Chiachih DC Wang ◽  
Ivan Carbajal
Keyword(s):  
Meaning In Life ◽  
Structural Equation ◽  
First Generation ◽  
The United States ◽  
Model Fit ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Future Directions ◽  
Adequate Model ◽  
Final Model ◽  
Modeling Analysis

This study examined a conceptual model depicting the direct and indirect relationships between attachment insecurity, state hope, belongingness, meaning in life (MIL), and three wellness indicators (i.e., life satisfaction, physical health, and depression) of first-generation Latinx immigrants in the United States. Results of structural equation modeling analysis showed adequate model fit with the data from a sample of 288 individuals. The final model indicated that the link between comfort-seeking attachment and wellness was fully mediated by hope, belongingness, and MIL; the relation between anxious-distancing attachment and wellness was fully mediated by belongingness and MIL but not hope. Specifically, participants with high levels of attachment security reported greater wellness via experiencing a stronger sense of belonging, state hope, and MIL. We discuss future directions and implications for counseling and theory from an attachment theory, positive psychology, and immigration perspective.

scholarly journals Meta-Heuristics in Short Scale Construction: Ant Colony Optimization and Genetic Algorithm

PLoS ONE ◽  
2016 ◽  
Vol 11 (11) ◽  
pp. e0167110 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ulrich Schroeders ◽  
Oliver Wilhelm ◽  
Gabriel Olaru
Keyword(s):  
Genetic Algorithm ◽  
Ant Colony Optimization ◽  
Scale Construction ◽  
Ant Colony ◽  
Short Scale

scholarly journals Dark tourism: motivations and visit intentions of tourists

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Heather Lewis ◽  
Thomas Schrier ◽  
Shuangyu Xu
Keyword(s):  
Structural Equation ◽  
Learning Experience ◽  
Reliability And Validity ◽  
Model Fit ◽  
Theoretical Research ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Dark Tourism ◽  
Adequate Model ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Confirmatory Factor

PurposeThe overall purpose of this study is to utilize the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) in combination with four dark tourism constructs (dark experience, engaging entertainment, unique learning experience, and casual interest) to gain a better understanding of behaviors and intentions of tourists who have visited or plan to visit a dark tourism location.Design/methodology/approachA total of 1,068 useable questionnaires was collected via Qualtrics Panels for analysis purposes. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was used to verify satisfactory reliability and validity regarding the measurement of model fit. With adequate model fit, structural equation modeling was employed to determine positive and negative relationships between TPB and dark tourism constructs. In all, 11 hypotheses statements were tested within this study.FindingsResults of this study indicate that tourists are curious, interested, and intrigued by dark experiences with paranormal activity, resulting in travel choices made for themselves based on personal beliefs and preferences, with minimal outside influence from others. It was determined that dark experience was the most influential of the dark tourism constructs tested in relationship to attitudes and subjective norm.Research limitations/implicationsThe data collected for this study were collected using Qualtrics Panels with self-reporting participants. The actual destination visited by survey participants was also not factored into the results of this research study.Originality/valueThis study provides a new theoretical research model that merges TPB and dark tourism constructs and established that there is a relationship between TPB constructs and dark tourism.

scholarly journals Compiling Measurement Invariant Short Scales in Cross–Cultural Personality Assessment Using Ant Colony Optimization

2020 ◽  
Vol 34 (3) ◽  
pp. 470-485 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kristin Jankowsky ◽  
Gabriel Olaru ◽  
Ulrich Schroeders
Keyword(s):  
Ant Colony Optimization ◽  
Measurement Invariance ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Sampling Procedure ◽  
Cross Cultural ◽  
Ant Colony ◽  
Implicit Assumption ◽  
Cultural Research ◽  
Cross Cultural Research ◽  
Item Sampling

Examining the influence of culture on personality and its unbiased assessment is the main subject of cross–cultural personality research. Recent large–scale studies exploring personality differences across cultures share substantial methodological and psychometric shortcomings that render it difficult to differentiate between method and trait variance. One prominent example is the implicit assumption of cross–cultural measurement invariance in personality questionnaires. In the rare instances where measurement invariance across cultures was tested, scalar measurement invariance—which is required for unbiased mean–level comparisons of personality traits—did not hold. In this article, we present an item sampling procedure, ant colony optimization, which can be used to select item sets that satisfy multiple psychometric requirements including model fit, reliability, and measurement invariance. We constructed short scales of the IPIP–NEO–300 for a group of countries that are culturally similar (USA, Australia, Canada, and UK) as well as a group of countries with distinct cultures (USA, India, Singapore, and Sweden). In addition to examining factor mean differences across countries, we provide recommendations for cross–cultural research in general. From a methodological perspective, we demonstrate ant colony optimization's versatility and flexibility as an item sampling procedure to derive measurement invariant scales for cross–cultural research. © 2020 The Authors. European Journal of Personality published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of European Association of Personality Psychology

scholarly journals Structural equation modeling of psychopathic traits in chilean female offenders using the self-report psychopathy-short form (SRP-SF) scale: A comparison of gender-based item modifications versus standard items

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
E León-Mayer ◽  
J Rocuant-Salinas ◽  
Hedwig Eisenbarth ◽  
J Folino ◽  
C Neumann
Keyword(s):  
Structural Equation ◽  
Structural Equation Models ◽  
Short Form ◽  
Female Offenders ◽  
Psychopathic Traits ◽  
The Self ◽  
Model Fit ◽  
Self Report ◽  
Equation Modeling ◽  
Gender Based

© 2019, Associacao Brasileira de Psiquiatria. All rights reserved. Objective: To examine the utility of the Self-Report Psychopathy-Short Form (SRP-SF) to assess psychopathic traits in female offenders and to test gender-based item modifications. Method: A South American sample of female offenders (n=210) was assessed with the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R); 110 subjects also completed the standard SRP-SF, while 109 completed a version with items rewritten to be more relevant for females. The underlying latent structure of the PCL-R and both versions of the SRP-SF were examined. Results: Most of the modified items showed higher average item responses. The PCL-R showed a stronger association with the modified SRP-SF than with the standard SRP-SF. The four-factor model showed very good fit in accounting for the PCL-R data, consistent with previous research. For both SRP-SF versions, the results indicated good model fit. Structural equation models were tested separately, in which a superordinate SRP-SF factor was set to predict a broad factor reflecting chronic misconduct. Both versions showed good model fit, and the SRP-SF superordinate factor significantly predicted a chronic misconduct factor. Conclusions: Both versions of the SRP-SF adequately reflected psychopathic features in this female sample; the modified items added robustness to representation of these features.

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