Quantitative Methods for Verifying Semantic Equivalence of Translated Research Instruments: A Chinese Version of the Experiences in Close Relationships Scale.

Abstract

Back-translation is typically used to verify semantic equivalence (SE) of a translated measure to the original scale. Although validity of the adapted scale depends fundamentally on SE, back-translation always involves subjective evaluations. This study developed “dual-language, split-half” quantitative methods of verification to supplement back-translation judgments. A 2nd purpose of this study was to create a measure to promote adult attachment research in Chinese cultures. A bilingual sample of 30 Taiwanese students completed split scales composed of half English items and half Chinese items translated from the Experiences in Close Relationships Scale (K. A. Brennan, C. L. Clark, & P. R. Shaver, 1998). Correlations between the dual-language, split halves were not statistically different from correlations between all-English sets of the same items derived from a criterion sample ( N 399). There were also no differences in retest reliabilities.