Using Rasch Analysis to Examine the Dimensionality Structure and Differential Item Functioning of the Arabic Version of the Perceived Physical Ability Scale for Children.

This study uses the Rasch model technique to examine the dimensionality structure and differential item functioning of the Arabic version of the Perceived Physical Ability Scale for Children (PPASC). A sample of 220 Omani fourth graders (120 males and 100 females) responded to an Arabic translated version of the PPASC. Data on students' participation in physical activity were also collected using the Participation in Physical Activity Scale (PPAS). The analyses supported the unidimensionality of the factorial structure of the PPASC. The PPASC items were found to function equivalently across male and female groups. There were significant gender differences in perceived physical ability favoring males. The PPASC correlated positively and significantly with the PPAS.