Examining Psychometric and Measurement Properties of the Career Thoughts Inventory: Demonstration and Use of the Rasch Measurement Model in Career Assessment Research Technical Report No. 51

Abstract

The Rasch measurement model for developing and revising career assessment tools has many advantages over traditional test development methods. To better understand this method, the current study met its two purposes (a) to illustrate how the Rasch measurement model can aid vocational psychology researchers in increased precision and accuracy in assessment; and (b) to examine the psychometric and measurement properties the Career Thoughts Inventory (CTI), using the Rasch measurement model with a sample of 232 college students. Results from the Rasch analysis confirmed that most of the CTI items on the decision-making confusion, commitment anxiety, and external conflict subscales were functioning as useful measurement items. Yet, these subscale items were somewhat restricted in the range with which they were measuring their respective type of dysfunctional career thinking. CTI and Rasch 3 Examining Psychometric and Measurement Properties of the Career Thoughts Inventory: Demonstration and Use of the Rasch Measurement Model in Career Assessment Research Technical Report No. 51 Career counselors often rely on vital information gained from personality and psychological inventories to help guide their overall decision-making and in working with the complex issues presented by clients in clinical settings. To be successful in the design and implementation of effective treatment strategies, career counselors and vocational psychologists must use the most appropriate inventories which will provide precise and accurate measurements of the clients" complex career issues. Common assessment types include personality inventories (e.g., NEO-PI-R; Costa & McCrae, 1992), career interest inventories (e.g.