Applying item response theory to psychometrically evaluate and shorten the Negative Acts Questionnaire-Revised

Workplace bullying (WB) assessment often relies on the Negative Acts Questionnaire-Revised (NAQ-R). This study aimed to shorten and improve the NAQ-R using Item Response Theory (IRT) and address sex bias. IRT analysis from 867 Swedish employees (66% women) identified less-informative items. Based on this, a 13-item NAQ-R Short Form (NAQ-R-SF) was developed, demonstrating strong discrimination and validity. The new NAQ-R-SF showed a significant correlation with a primary WB measure (r = .57) and other relevant constructs, including individual factors like neuroticism and health quality, as well as work-related factors such as interpersonal conflicts and work performance. Sex bias was not found. IRT and validity evidence support the NAQ-R-SF as a robust tool for measuring WB, aligning with established WB constructs and individual differences.