Validation of a Chinese Version of the Digital Stress Scale and Development of a Short Form Based on Item Response Theory Among Chinese College Students

PURPOSE: In 2021, Hall et al developed the Digital Stress Scale (DSS), but its psychometric characteristics were only tested using classical test theory (CTT). In this study, we use item response theory (IRT) and CTT to develop and verify a Chinese version of the DSS and its short version, which can improve the reliability and effectiveness of the digital stress measurement tool for Chinese college students. METHODS: In this study, we developed a Chinese version of the DSS (DSS-C) and recruited 1506 Chinese college students as participants to analyze its psychometric characteristics based on CTT and item response theory methods. First, we used CTT, including common method bias, construct validity, criterion-related validity, internal consistency, test-retest reliability and measurement invariance. Then, we adopted the IRT approach to examine the item parameters, item characteristics, item information, differential item function, test information, and test reliability of the DSS-C. Finally, a short form (DSS-C-S) was constructed, and the psychometric characteristics of the DSS-C-S were examined. RESULTS: (1) The five-factor structure of the DSS-C was verified. The DSS-C shows good internal reliability, test-retest reliability, criterion-related validity and measurement invariance between urban college students and rural college students. (2) All 24 items had reasonable discrimination parameters and location parameters and were DIF-free by gender. Except for Items 4 and 10, all the other items had high information and measurement reliability at medium θ levels. (3) Compared with the DSS-C, the 22-item short form also has good reliability and validity and maintains sufficient measurement accuracy while reducing items of poor quality. CONCLUSION: Both the DSS-C and the DSS-C-S have good psychometric characteristics and are accurate and effective tools for measuring the digital stress of Chinese college students.