Using Rasch analysis to evaluate the psychometric functioning of the other-directed, lighthearted, intellectual, and whimsical (OLIW) adult playfulness scale

Abstract It is important for instruments measuring playfulness constructs to be valid and reliable because these instruments help inform playfulness-related theories. This study uses Rasch psychometric techniques to evaluate the functioning of the OLIW instrument (Proyer, 2017a), a questionnaire that assesses four adult playfulness traits (Other-directed, Lighthearted, Intellectual, and Whimsical). Results confirm that the instrument measures four discrete traits. Analyses of the rating scale suggest acceptable scale functioning. The item hierarchy observed on each Rasch Wright Map provides new details regarding the definition of each construct (e.g. what it means for a person to be at various locations along each construct). Potential changes to future versions of the instrument are discussed.