EMOCIJE U BITOVIMA: KONSTRUKCIJA I VALIDACIJA SKALE EMPATIJE U DIGITALNOM OKRUŽENJU
EMOTIONS IN BITS: CONSTRUCTION AND VALIDATION OF AN EMPATHY SCALE IN THE DIGITAL ENVIRONMENT

Summary/Abstract: The aim of this study was to develop and psychometrically validate a measurement instrument for assessing empathy in an online environment. Drawing on classical theories of empathy and contemporary approaches to computer-mediated communication, empathy in the digital context was conceptualized as a multidimensional construct encompassing cognitive, affective, and communicative dimensions. In Study 1, an initial pool of items was developed, and its content validity was evaluated by eight experts. Using Lawshe’s Content Validity Ratio, 35 items were identified and retained for the pilot version of the instrument. In Study 2, an exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the pilot version using a sample of 152 university students. The results indicated a three-factor structure corresponding to the cognitive, affective, and communicative dimensions of digital empathy. Together, the three factors accounted for approximately 44.3% of the total variance and demonstrated satisfactory internal consistency. In Study 3, evidence of the scale’s criterion-related, convergent, and discriminant validity was obtained. The developed measurement instrument has the potential to assess the quality of interpersonal relationships and evaluate interventions focused on improving empathic communication in digital environments.

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