Question

Recall that a mulit-item measure is a scale or index that measures a single construct with more than one question/item. For this discussion post, you are to look for a research study OUTSIDE THOSE IN THE TEXTBOOK that uses a multi-item scale or index. You can find a peer-reviewed article on a topic that interests you in the library database by searching for the key words; for example, “measurement validity and reliability of obesity scale”. Tell us briefly what the scale measures, how many questions/item are included in the scale and (cite your measure appropriately). and tell us if the authors provide information on the validity and reliability of that scale/index.

Answer 1

A multi item scale or index is used to measure a single construct with more than one question or item. It is used to assess any person's opinion, emotions, personal needs, attitudes, environment, etc by the help of series of related questions or items. The final score of this scale is based on all the related questions or items.

Multi item measure is better than the single straightforward question. It is more reliable and valid than the single question measure. There is a chance that people might not give consistent answers over time. They may also interpret the question differently over time which depends upon their state of mind at any particular day. Single question cannot asses the broad scope of person's social characteristics. The chances of random errors can be diluted by the use of multi item measure.

This is why multi item measurement scale is better, more reliable, and more valid than the single straightforward question measurement.

This can be demonstrated by an example :-

In order to assess any person's experience during any hospital visit, the following questions are to be asked :-

• Behaviors of doctors and other healthcare professionals.
• Hygienic conditions and cleanliness of the hospital.
• Total fees paid by the person.
• The qualities of medical equipments used in the hospital.
• The communication between the person and the healthcare professionals.

The final score is determined on the basis of the above series of questions or items.