Abstract
BackgroundWhile power imbalance is now recognized as a key component of bullying, reliable and valid measurement instruments have yet to be developed. This research aimed to develop a self-report instrument that measures power imbalance as perceived by the victim of frequent aggressive behavior.MethodsA mixed methods approach was used (468 participants, Grade 4 to 6). This paper describes the exploratory (n = 111) and confirmatory factor analysis of the new instrument (n = 337), and assessment of reliablity and construct validity.ResultsA 2-factor model represented physical and social aspects of power imbalance (n = 127: normed chi-square = 1.2, RMSEA = .04, CF1 = .993). The social factor included constructs of group and peer valued characteristics.ConclusionsThis research will enhance health and education professionals understanding of power imbalance in bullying and will inform the design and evaluation of interventions to address bullying in children.
Highlights
While power imbalance is recognized as a key component of bullying, reliable and valid measurement instruments have yet to be developed
Statistical analysis This paper reports the Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) that followed an extensive process of item development for the Scale of Perceived Power Imbalance (SPPI) that emerged through qualitative research with children ages 9 to 11
Results of the EFA are reported on the power imbalance items that followed the Personal Experiences Checklist (PECK) Verbal-relational scale (n = 51)
Summary
While power imbalance is recognized as a key component of bullying, reliable and valid measurement instruments have yet to be developed. This paper discusses the development and validation of the Scale of Perceived Power Imbalance (SPPI), an instrument designed to measure children’s experience of power imbalance associated with bullying. For the purpose of this study, school bullying is defined as a form of aggression that is distinguished by repeated physical or emotional harm within a relationship of power imbalance [2]. This differs to the definition provided by Olweus [3], who included intent to harm in the definition of bullying.
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