Rasch Validation of the FRTVMI in Arab Adolescents: Cultural and Gender Considerations in Visual-Motor Assessment

This study examined the construct validity of the Full Range Test of Visual-Motor Integration (FRTVMI) among adolescents aged 11-16 years in Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait using the Rasch measurement model. A total of 2464 students were selected through cluster random sampling to ensure national representation. Rasch analysis evaluated the unidimensionality, item fit, local independence, scalability, and reliability of the test. Results indicated strong evidence of unidimensionality, high item reliability, and satisfactory person reliability across samples. However, notable discrepancies in item difficulty ordering emerged between countries and relative to the original test manual, suggesting cultural and educational influences on item performance. Differential item functioning (DIF) analysis identified several gender-biased items-most prominently in the Kuwaiti sample-raising concerns about test fairness. While the FRTVMI demonstrates strong psychometric properties, the findings highlight the need for culturally responsive adaptations and further research to enhance its validity and equity across diverse populations in the Gulf region.