Validation and exploratory factor analysis of the Abuse within Intimate Relationships Scale (AIRS).

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to provide validation for and examine the factor structure of the Abuse with Intimate Relations Scale (AIRS; Borjesson, Aarons & Dunn, 2003). The AIRS was designed for use in identifying college students who may be at risk for becoming involved in violent intimate relationships. Using a sample of 190 students from a public community college and 88 students from a public university, both in a southwestern state, survey data was collected using the AIRS and two widely used instruments that have been previously validated. Data regarding social desirability was also gathered in order to control for this factor. Results indicated evidence for convergent validity, although the data generally did not support the hypotheses regarding discriminate validity. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a factor structure similar to that identified by the authors of the scale.