title: An overview of coefficient alpha and a reliability matrix for estimating adequacy of internal consistency coefficients with psychological research measures.
abstract: The present article addresses issues in reliability assessment that are often neglected in psychological research such as acceptable levels of internal consistency for research purposes, factors affecting the magnitude of coefficient alpha (alpha), and considerations for interpreting alpha within the research context. A new reliability matrix anchored in classical test theory is introduced to help researchers judge adequacy of internal consistency coefficients with research measures. Guidelines and cautions in applying the matrix are provided.
authors.affiliation: Division of Psychological and Educational Services, Room 1008, Fordham University at Lincoln Center, 113 West 60th Street, New York, NY 10023-7478, USA. JPonterott@aol.com
authors.forename: Joseph G
authors.initials: JG
authors.lastname: Ponterotto
authors.forename: Daniel E
authors.initials: DE
authors.lastname: Ruckdeschel
mesh_terms: D000704:Analysis of Variance; D005163:Factor Analysis, Statistical; D017408:Guidelines as Topic; D006801:Humans; D011584:Psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011594:Psychometrics; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012106:Research / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012107:Research Design