Development and Initial Validation of the Perceived Classism Experiences Scale

Abstract

This article describes the development and initial validation of the Perceived Classism Experiences Scale (PCES), a scale created to measure experiences of classism based on the Social Class Worldview Model. In Study 1, we conducted an exploratory factor analysis on a sample of 309 participants, revealing three distinct factors: Downward Classism, Upward Classism, and Lateral Classism. In Study 2, a confirmatory factor analysis with data from a distinct sample of 341 participants provided further support for the bifactor structure of the PCES. Significant correlations with subjective social status, self-rated health, stress, state and trait anxiety, life satisfaction, and well-being further supported criterion validity of the PCES. The PCES advances on previous scales of classism, as it is theory-driven and it is not restricted to academic environments. We discuss research and practical implications of the PCES.