Psychometric Properties of Ethnic Identity

Ethnic identity is a complex construct that is developed in adolescence. Unlike race, which is bestowed unto one at birth, ethnic identity involves exploration and exposure to cultural practices to be formed. The varying degree this exploration and attachment occurs produces a range of possible positions on the latent trait continua. Gallantly, a few scholars have attempted to capture this specific construct, albeit through classical test theory (CTT) methods and under false distributional assumptions. The present study is concerned with the psychometric exploration of the three most widely used measures of ethnic identity (i.e., Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure, MEIM; Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure-Revised, MEIM-R; Ethnic Identity Scale, EIS) under a modern test theory framework. The three measures of ethnic identity were assessed with the nominal response model (NRM) to establish if each scale functioned as proposed under modern test theory and we conducted model modification when appropriate. The MEIM and EIS both experienced a loss of items from the NRM scale revision, which boosted test information. The MEIM-R retained its full 6-item scale. DIF analyses were also conducted on the three scales. All scales had some items experience DIF. The final objective of this study was to recommend a scale for future use. Given the MEIM-R's success in the NRM assessment phase and relative equivalency with the other measures in the DIF portion, this measure is recommended.