Psychometric Development of an Instrument Measuring Academic Social Bullying in Nursing Higher Education: Continuing Content and Construct Validation

Abstract

BackgroundA de novo 108-item instrument measuring academic social bullying was developed from literature, research findings, and extant instruments. Using content validity index processes, the instrument was reduced to 40 items.PurposeThe purpose of this study was to continue with psychometric development and instrument construct validation.MethodsA purposive, representative sample of nursing school faculty was surveyed. Over 2,000 nurse educators in baccalaureate and higher degree programs were contacted via email and invited to a Qualtrics site. Respondents completed a brief demographics section, rated agreement with item appropriateness using a 5-point Likert scale. Participants responded to open-ended questions about individual items.ResultsSummary aggregate data were analyzed. Over 250 respondents represented various faculty ranks. Over 75% had experienced or witnessed academic social bullying. Factor analysis ascertained construct validity. Three factors were identified explaining 67% of variance. Qualitative comments supported item appropriateness.ConclusionsThe new instrument will permit assessment of academic social bullying in future research.