Detecting differential item functioning in the Japanese version of the multiple affect adjective check list-revised

This study examines the differential item functioning (DIF) of the English version and the Japanese-translated version of the Multiple Affect Adjective Check List-Revised (MAACL-R) using the logistic regression (LR) procedure. The results of the LR are supplemented by multiple group confirmatory factor analysis (MGCFA). A total of five items are consistently flagged as showing DIF by both methods and based on the effect size criteria set forth by Jodoin and Gierl. One item shows nonuniform DIF, whereas four items show uniform DIF. Elimination or modification of the items with DIF can facilitate the appropriate use of the Japanese MAACL-R, especially in cross-cultural studies.