Psychometric equivalence of the Brazilian version of the Test of Pragmatic Language 2-TOPL-2

Abstract

Introduction: Considering the relevance of the investigation about the pragmatic function for language disorders diagnosis, as well as the relevance of validity evidence for test interpretation, this paper aimed to explore the psychometric equivalence between the American and Brazilian versions of the Test of Pragmatic Language, Second Edition (TOPL-2). Methods: A total of 81 students from the third to seventh year from public elementary schools of São Paulo (63% girls; average age=9.42 years, SD=0.93) with no complaints or indicators of low school performance were selected. Students answered the verbal application of the TOPL-2 Brazilian-Portuguese version. Some of the psychometric inquiries reported in the original version of the test were reproduced focusing on the analyses of difficulty, internal consistency, discrimination, and differential item functioning. Results: Most of the items (86%) presented similar difficulties to the American version. The internal consistency index had acceptable values (0.70). Few items (26%) showed adequate discrimination, but 49% were close to the desirable cutoffs. Eight items showed differential functioning; of which, five were favorable to boys. Conclusion: Despite sample limitations related to size and variability, almost half of the items showed psychometric equivalence to the American version.