Response Conversion for Improving Comparability of International Physical Activity Data

Hopman-Rock M, Dusseldorp E, Chorus A, Jacobusse G, Rütten A, van Buuren S (2012)

Publication Language: English

Publication Status: Accepted

Publication Type: Journal article, Original article

Publication year: 2012

Journal

Journal of Physical Activity and Health Human Kinetics

Original Authors: Rütten Alfred, Hopman-Rock, M., Dusseldorp E., Chorus A., Jacobusse G., Buuren St. van

Publisher: Human Kinetics

Book Volume: 9

Pages Range: 29-38

Abstract

Background: Many questionnaires for measuring physical activity (PA) exist. This complicates the comparison of outcomes. Methods: In 8 European countries, PA was measured in random samples of 600 persons, using the IPAQ as a ‘bridge’ to historical sets of country-speci c questions. We assume that a unidimensional scale of PA ability exists on which items and respondents can be placed, irrespective of country, culture, background factors, or measurement instrument. Response Conversion (RC) based on Item Response Theory (IRT) was used to estimate such a common PA scale, to compare PA levels between countries, and to create a conver- sion key. Comparisons were made with Eurobarometer (IPAQ) data. Results: Appropriateness of IRT was supported by the existence of a strong rst dimension established by principal component analysis. The IRT analysis resulted in 1 common PA scale with a reasonable t and face validity. However, evidence for cultural bias (Differential Item Functioning, DIF) was found in all IPAQ items. This result made actual comparison between countries dif cult. Conclusions: Response Conversion can improve comparability in the eld of PA. RC needs common items that are culturally unbiased. Wide-scale use of RC awaits measures that are more culturally invariant (such as international accelerometer data). 

Authors with CRIS profile

Alfred Rütten Lehrstuhl für Sportwissenschaft mit der Ausrichtung Gesundheitsförderung/Public Health/Sozialwissenschaften des Sports

Involved external institutions

Academic Medical Centre / Academisch Medisch Centrum (AMC) NL Netherlands (NL) TNO Quality of Life Zeist NL Netherlands (NL) Universiteit Utrecht (UU) / Utrecht University NL Netherlands (NL)

How to cite

APA:

Hopman-Rock, M., Dusseldorp, E., Chorus, A., Jacobusse, G., Rütten, A., & van Buuren, S. (2012). Response Conversion for Improving Comparability of International Physical Activity Data. Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 9, 29-38.

MLA:

Hopman-Rock, Marijke, et al. "Response Conversion for Improving Comparability of International Physical Activity Data." Journal of Physical Activity and Health 9 (2012): 29-38.

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