2.9.2 Step 2: Item wording
Each item addressed a single construct, and was worded in a neutral,
understandable tone.18 Similar items for each
construct were reworded either positively or negatively to reduce bias
stemming from participants answering in a particular
pattern,31 and to improve internal consistency. We
attempted to keep the wording and formatting simple and understandable
to prevent misinterpretation and potential measurement
error.32
Items were based on reflections of occurrences within the last month to
prevent respondents from being unduly influenced by incidents that may
not have reflected their usual practice. Similar items were worded in a
positive and negative manner to assess the consistency of
responses33. This mechanism enhances internal
consistency as closely worded items can yield a higher inter-item
correlation.34