An analysis of the item characteristics of the conditional reasoning test of aggression

Abstract

This dissertation employs modern psychometric techniques to estimate the item characteristics of the Conditional Reasoning Test of Aggression (CRT-A) and three related subscales. Using a sample size of 5,511 respondents, this dissertation provides an accurate assessment of the capability of the CRT-A to measure latent aggression. Additionally, a differential item functioning analysis compares student and applied samples. Results suggest that 21 of the 22 CRT-A items work as intended for the measurement of aggression and all 22 of the CRT-A items are good indicators of their respective factor subscales. Information curves indicate that the CRT-A is best suited for use with individuals who are high on latent aggression.