Scale Development: Theory and Applications

by Robert F. DeVellis

In the Fourth Edition of Scale Development , Robert F. DeVellis demystifies measurement by emphasizing a logical rather than strictly mathematical understanding of concepts. The text supports readers in comprehending newer approaches to measurement, comparing them to classical approaches, and grasping more clearly the relative merits of each. This edition addresses new topics pertinent to modern measurement approaches and includes additional exercises and topics for class discussion.

282 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 30, 2016

Reviews

[Annas Jiwa Pratama]

Actually started reading this back in May. Took my time to make a chapter-by-chapter summary (still on Chapter 6 out of 8 though!), since the book is so intuitive and thorough. It's also a relatively easy read.

I think the book shines when it explains fundamental concepts (e.g. What is IRT? Why do we need to rotate when doing factor analysis) but it also doesn't skip on the more cookbook-ey aspects (e.g. step by step scale construction, development sample size recommendation), which makes the book a good reference as well when you actually do-the-thing. However, it never goes into the minute details. It might tell you which packages or software you might want to use for certain things, but the book does not give tutorials or vignettes, so you want to use it more as a general guideline and look for practical guides elsewhere.

(Does not know enough to make more substantial comments)

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a "must-read" in my graduate studies in personality assessment. DeVellis presents important steps in scale development in a clear, easy-to follow format. He also touches on several important issues in measurement that would-be scale developers should keep in mind. It's a slim volume, but every page is full of helpful information. A valuable reference text!

[Archita · Rating 4 out of 5]

i liked this book, but it is VERY dense and focuses really heavily on research (with less practical/clinical discussion)

[Eric Taipale · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good, comprehensive.

[alybro · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the balance between theory and practicality and will be referring to this book regularly in my own work!!