Validation Study of the Korean Version of the Jefferson Scale of Empathy-Health Professions Students for Measuring Empathy in Undergraduate Nursing Students

Abstract

Purpose: This study was to validate the Korean version of the Jefferson Scale of Empathy-Health Professions Students (K-JSE-HPS) in undergraduate nursing students. Methods: With a survey design, a total of 293 junior and senior nursing students were recruited and data were collected using a self-administered study questionnaire to measure their levels of empathy use the K-JSE-HPS. Using SPSS/WIN 22.0 and AMOS 22.0, data analysis was conducted with confirmatory factor analysis, criterion validity, and reliability. Results: For construct validity, confirmatory factor analysis showed an acceptable model fit (Goodness of Fit Index was 0.88) along with confirming convergent and discriminant validity (construct reliability was 0.70). For criterion validity, the scale was significantly related with the Interpersonal Reaction Index. For reliability, Cronbach's ${alpha}$ coefficient for the scale was 0.87 and for the subscales were 0.84, 0.78, and 0.69, respectively. Conclusion: The findings show satisfactory construct and criterion validity and reliability of the Korean version of the JSE-HPS for measuring empathy in undergraduate nursing students.