Examining the psychometric validity of the five-item gratitude questionnaire: An item response theory approach

Abstract

The present investigation explored the psychometric validity of the five-item Gratitude Questionnaire (GQ-5) using a construct validation approach. Concerning within-network construct validity, results of item response theory (IRT) analysis via graded response model (GRM) showed that this scale could not discriminate individuals who score high in gratitude and the 7-scale response options could be modified to a 6-scale response choice. As regards to between-network construct validity, findings demonstrated that gratitude was positively correlated to both controlled and autonomous motivation. Implications are discussed to refine the assessment of gratitude in the school contexts. © The Author(s) 2018.