Factor Structure of the Relational and Overt Aggression Questionnaire (ROAQ) in an Iranian Sample

Objective: The purpose of this study is to provide evidence of validity of the Relational and Overt Aggression Questionnaire (ROAQ) among Iranian elementary students. Methods: Three hundred and forty nine 4th and 5th grade students (ages 9 and 10) participated in this study. Participants completed the ROAQ. The scale consisted of 33 items designed to measure self-report aggressive behaviors for elementary school students attending fourth and fifth grade. Results: Exploratory factor analysis resulted in three factors that included dimensions such as physical aggression, verbal aggression and relational aggression. Correlation among the three factors ranged from 0.25 to 0.43. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the multidimensional measurement model (the three-factor solution). Initial exploratory factor analyses revealed three factors that explained a substantial amount (42.32%) of the variance (20.24% by factor 1). The goodness-of-fit measures also revealed an adequate fit. Conclusion: These results provide initial support for the construct validity of self-report version of the ROAQ in relation to the elementary students.