Examining the Validity of the Bem Sex Role Inventory for Use with Filipino Americans Using Confirmatory Factor Analysis

Abstract

A primary purpose of multicultural social work research is to gain an understanding of ethnic minority populations to develop effective prevention and intervention services. In order to achieve this goal, the validity of the instruments for use with these populations needs to be established. Using confirmatory factor analysis, this paper investigates the factor structure of one of the most frequently used instruments in gender role research, the Bem Sex Role Inventory (BSRI), for use with Filipino Americans. A total of 171 Filipino and 130 White undergraduate students were surveyed. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) suggests that the BSRI is not a valid measure of masculine or feminine gender roles for the Filipino American population. Using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), a new model has been proposed. CFA findings suggest that Filipino males and females do not dichotomize sex roles into either masculine or feminine. Rather, EFA results for Filipino Americans indicate a four factor multidimensional structure of gender roles. Cultural values and beliefs are used to explain the composition of the new model, and implications for social work practice are presented.