An examination of the validity of the Subjective Vitality Questionnaire

Abstract

The concept of group vitality was developed over 30 years ago to assist in understanding of power relations between language groups. However, vitality has also been an important consideration when attempting to understand intergroup relations more generally. Vitality researchers distinguish subjective vitality from objective vitality. This study focuses on subjective vitality. Specifically, the paper examines the validity of the Subjective Vitality Questionnaire (SVQ), the instrument frequently utilised to quantitatively assess vitality perceptions. Data collected in the USA from three ethnic groups (African Americans, Asian Americans and Hispanic Americans) who rated the vitalities of Caucasian, African, and Hispanic Americans, were analysed using both first-order confirmatory factor analysis and exploratory factor analysis. Both types of analysis failed to uncover the underlying factor structure of status, demography, and institutional support proposed by vitality researchers. Although the factors could not be validated, when the SVQ was analysed as a unidimensional measure, it posted strong reliability. The discussion offers suggestions on how to improve the SVQ in future research.