Leisure negotiation strategies scale : a study of validity and reliability for university students

The aim of this study was to develop a Turkish version of the “Leisure Negotiation Strategies Scale” for university students and to examine its validity and reliability. The Leisure Negotiation Strategies Scale contains 31 items, which are expressed on a 5-point Likert scale. The scale was tested in two separate samples comprising a total of 810 Turkish students. The first group (n=400) was used to test data using exploratory factor analysis, and the second group (n=410) was used to test data using confirmatory factor analysis. Explanatory factor analysis produced a 6-factor solution with the sub-dimensions time-management strategies, skill-acquisition strategies, interpersonal relations, intra-personal validation strategies, physical fitness strategies and financial management. Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed this 6-factor solution (first order confirmatory factor analysis, GFI=0.85, AGFI=0.82, NFI=0.87, TLI=0.90, CFI=0.91, RMSEA=0.072, SRMR=0.074; second order confirmatory factor analysis, GFI=0.85, AGFI=0.82, NFI=0.87, TLI=0.90, CFI=0.91, RMSEA=0.072 and SRMR=0.074). Cronbach’s alpha coefficient values ranged from 0.70 to 0.77 in the 6 sub-dimensions. Finally, evidence of test-retest reliability of scale scores was supported, based on responses from 100 students. These results demonstrate that this Turkish version of the scale is a valid and reliable instrument for university students. Key words : Leisure constraints; Coping; Scale; Factor analysis; Turkish students.