Florence Bullying-Victimization Scales: Validation Study and Victimization Associations With Well-Being and Social Self-Efficacy

Abstract

This study provides a thorough psychometric evaluation of construct and criterion validity and measurement invariance of the promising Florence Bullying-Victimization Scales (FBVS). A special focus was devoted to the concurrent criterion validity of the victimization scale with regard to well-being and social self-efficacy. Exploratory and confirmatory multidimensional item response theory and structural equation modeling were applied to cross-sectional data retrieved from 3rd to 6th-grade Czech primary school students ( N = 1795; 49% female; M age = 10.42, SD = 1.25). The results supported the use of unidimensional factor structure that demonstrated acceptable model fit and measurement invariance across genders and grades. Moderate to high correlations of the FBVS scores with bullying and victimization measured by the Olweus Bully/Victim Questionnaire and other instruments indicated very good convergent validity. Regarding criterion validity, higher victimization was associated with lower levels of well-being and social self-efficacy.