Rasch calibration of physical activity self-efficacy and social support scale for persons with intellectual disabilities.
Two quick, Rasch-tested scales can reliably measure exercise confidence and support in adults with intellectual disabilities.
01Research in Context
What this study did
Lee et al. (2010) tested two short surveys with adults who have intellectual disabilities. One survey asked, "Can you do physical activities?" The other asked, "Do people support you to move more?"
The team used Rasch modeling. This method checks if each question fits one clear idea. It also spots items that confuse people with different disability levels.
What they found
Both surveys passed the Rasch test. All items lined up on a single ruler: self-efficacy and social support. No question gave an unfair edge to people with mild or severe ID.
In plain words, the six-item confidence scale and the 17-item support scale are ready for real-world use.
How this fits with other research
Davis et al. (2009) warned that the popular Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale works poorly with adults who have ID. Miyoung’s positive result shows not all self-report tools fail; careful Rasch work can yield clean data.
Amore et al. (2011) also used Rasch to shorten a technology-use questionnaire for the same population. Both studies prove Rasch is a trusted friend when you need brief, fair scales.
Mumbardó-Helles et al. (2017) meta-analysis found gender, race, and label shift self-determination scores. Miyoung’s scales showed no such bias, giving you steadier baseline data for physical-activity plans.
Why it matters
You now have two free, validated scales that take under five minutes to give. Use them during intake to see why a client avoids the gym or park. Match low scores with extra staff prompts, peer buddies, or simpler tasks. Track the numbers monthly to prove your physical-activity program is working.
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02At a glance
03Original abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the construct validity of the Self-Efficacy/Social Support for Activity for persons with Intellectual Disability (SE/SS-AID) scales developed by Peterson, Peterson, Lowe, & Nothwehr (2009). A total of 146 participants with intellectual disabilities completed 6 self-efficacy (SE) items and 18 social support (SS) items. After applying the Rasch rating model, all SE items and 17 SS items fit the model and measured a single-construct. Thus, it was able to determine the item difficulty and person's level of SE and SS for physical activity by calculated logit scores. No items showed evidence for differential functioning by the level of intellectual disability. Model fit of SS subscales (e.g., staff, family, and peer) showed good-fit as well. In conclusion, SE and SS scales for physical activity can be measured more accurately for persons with intellectual disabilities by using the modified scales validated in this study.
Research in developmental disabilities, 2010 · doi:10.1016/j.ridd.2010.02.010