An Item Response Theory Analysis of the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale

TLDR

The study examined the Rosenberg Self‑Esteem Scale using item response theory to assess item functioning and inform future personality instrument development. A unidimensional graded‑response model was fitted, comparing a constrained equal‑discrimination model to a freely estimated discrimination model. Factor analysis revealed a single common factor, and the unconstrained model fit better, indicating the items are not equally discriminating and are differentially related to self‑esteem.

Abstract

The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, a widely used self-report instrument for evaluating individual self-esteem, was investigated using item response theory. Factor analysis identified a single common factor, contrary to some previous studies that extracted separate Self-Confidence and Self-Depreciation factors. A unidimensional model for graded item responses was fit to the data. A model that constrained the 10 items to equal discrimination was contrasted with a model allowing the discriminations to be estimated freely. The test of significance indicated that the unconstrained model better fit the data-that is, the 10 items of the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale are not equally discriminating and are differentially related to self-esteem. The pattern of functioning of the items was examined with respect to their content, and observations are offered with implications for validating and developing future personality instruments.