A reliability and validity study of the Women's Role Strain Inventory

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Women's Studies

Background:

• Limited research exists on role strain experienced by women juggling multiple roles.
• Existing literature acknowledges both negative and positive effects of role strain, conflict, and stress.
• Theoretical frameworks by Goode (1960) and Sieber (1974) provide a foundation for understanding role strain and accumulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To theoretically conceptualize, develop, and test the Women's Role Strain Inventory (WRSI).
• To create a reliable and valid instrument for assessing role strain in women with multiple roles.

Main Methods:

• Pilot study involved 62 female nurses.
• Construct validity assessed using a sample of 445 female nurses.
• Content validity index calculated; exploratory factor analysis with varimax rotation performed.

Main Results:

• Content validity index of .91.
• Exploratory factor analysis yielded a three-factor solution, supporting Goode's and Sieber's theories.
• High reliability coefficients: Alpha coefficients for subscales ranged from .81 to .89; overall WRSI internal consistency was .93. Test-retest reliability ranged from .61 to .91.

Conclusions:

• The Women's Role Strain Inventory (WRSI) is a reliable and valid instrument.
• The WRSI effectively measures role strain in women experiencing multiple roles.
• Findings support the theoretical underpinnings of role strain and role accumulation.