The Indonesian Version of the Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE): Differential Item Functioning Analysis Using a Mediated MIMIC Model

Self-efficacy refers to an individual's optimistic belief in their own capabilities—the belief that they can perform difficult tasks and overcome challenges effectively. One commonly used instrument for measuring self-efficacy is the Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE). This study aimed to examine the factor structure and differential item functioning (DIF) of the Indonesian version of the GSE. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to test the factor structure, whereas the Mediated MIMIC model was applied to assess DIF. The participants were 534 undergraduate students (102 males and 432 females) aged 17–25 years (M = 20.06, SD = 1.34). A non-probability sampling method with a convenience sampling technique was used. The findings indicated that CFA supported a one-factor (unidimensional) model with a good fit to the data. At the item-parameter level, all 10 items of the Indonesian version of the GSE showed statistically significant factor loadings. However, gender-related DIF was detected in Item 3. These findings suggest that although the Indonesian version of the GSE demonstrates a unidimensional measurement structure, researchers and practitioners should interpret gender-based comparisons cautiously because Item 3 may function differently across male and female respondents.