Exploring Cross-National Comparability of Unidimensional Constructs

The purpose of this paper is to propose an empirical methodology for exploring the standardization of unidimensional constructs and providing cross-national comparative analyses. For the demonstration of the suggested methodology, and in order to facilitate practical applications, we used an 8-item scale measuring functioning as a determinant of wellbeing which was included in the 2012 European Social Survey questionnaire for 17 European countries. Initially, the inclusion of items for further analysis was investigated at country level in order to create an overall measure. This led to the creation of a common 7-item unidimensional construct for 14 countries. The common structures were validated and, based on the results of Confirmatory factor analyses, their psychometric properties were assessed, providing reliable and valid constructs for each case. In addition, a cross-national comparison of mean scores of the resulting overall measure of functioning was conducted in relation to measures of satisfaction with life and happiness. Similar patterns were observed cross-nationally, as higher levels of the overall measure of functioning were obtained for those inclined to the higher end of the scales of satisfaction with life and happiness.