Abstract
The purpose of this study is to make available to researchers and
practitioners a new instrument to measure turnover reasons based on a
compensatory Multidimensional Item Response Theory (MIRT) model. Since
extrinsic and intrinsic aspects are measured, item parameters and
individual scores are provided for each dimension. An alternative
procedure for standardization (WS scores) was introduced for the
calculation of respondents’ scores. The Multidimensional Turnover
Reasons Scale (MTRS) was administered to 615 workers. Multidimensional
Graded Response Model was chosen for item calibration and EAP estimation
technique was deployed for producing the individual’s factor scores. The
two-dimensional structure was confirmed, with 28 out of 30 items
properly measuring turnover reasons. Items more likely to predict
turnover reasons and an interpretation about individual scoring under a
MIRT approach are presented. Finally, when compared to estimated factor
scores, WS scoring technique shows very attractive psychometric
properties, which suggests it could be used in place of factor scores
for the standardization of multidimensional models, under the scenario
in consideration. The MTRS can help companies to work beyond their
turnover rates, mainly on the analyses of their talented employees with
stronger reasons to leave the organization, and then create new
strategies aimed at worker retention.