What Does It Look Like to Evaluate “Handle Frustration Well”? Measurement Invariance of the Devereux Early Childhood Assessment Across Gender, Race/Ethnicity, and Home Language

ABSTRACT The Devereux Early Childhood Assessment (DECA) is a measure of children's positive social‐emotional functioning. This study aimed to validate the factor structure of DECA and test measurement invariance across different demographic groups. Secondary data analysis was conducted using data from one Head Start program, employing a multi‐stage sampling approach. DECA scores from 1209 children were used to test for measurement invariance. While one item of the DECA had to be dropped due to low factor loadings, the original 3‐factor structure of the DECA was supported. Additionally, measurement invariance was found across gender, race/ethnicity, and home language status. The study's findings support the DECA as a valid and reliable tool for assessing social and emotional development in diverse populations, with implications for research and practice in early childhood assessment.