Psychometric Evaluation of the Norwegian Translation of the Group Conflict Questionnaire

Authors

  • Tommy Haugen University of Agder
  • Andreas Stenling Department of Psychology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden and Department of Sport Science and Physical Education, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0834-1040
  • Derek M. Peters Independent Researcher
  • Luc Martin School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, Canada.
  • Rune Høigaard Department of Sport Science and Physical Education, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway and Department of Sociology and Political Science, NTNU, Trondheim, Norway

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7146/sjsep.v8i.166850

Keywords:

Group Dynamics, Measurement, Norway, Sport Psychology, Team Sport, Bifactor Model, Validation

Abstract

Perspectives on group dynamics usually acknowledge conflict in teams as unavoidable, necessitating that it be acknowledged and dealt with to develop effective and functional teams. A psychometrically sound measure is warranted to advance our understanding of this phenomenon. Based on the importance of investigating and understanding conflict in sport teams, the purpose of this study was to translate the Group Conflict Questionnaire into Norwegian using recommended scale adaptation and translation procedures and to examine the psychometric properties of the scale in Norwegian adult and youth interdependent sport team athletes. 621 recreational team-sport athletes between ages 13 and 35 were randomly split in half for exploratory factor-structure testing and a confirmatory cross-validation of the most appropriate model. The factor structure of the scale was tested using both Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling. Bifactor solutions were also tested. The results indicated support for a two-factor model with subsequent acceptable model-fit for the scale. The results do, however, suggest a somewhat suboptimal scale in need of additional revisions and validation, because of concerning cross-loadings and potential issues with discriminant validity. The study investigates previously untested models of the GCQ, adding valuable information about the underlying structure of the group-conflict phenomenon.

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Published

2026-07-15

How to Cite

Haugen, T., Stenling, A., Peters, D. M., Martin, L., & Høigaard, R. (2026). Psychometric Evaluation of the Norwegian Translation of the Group Conflict Questionnaire. Scandinavian Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 8, 87–96. https://doi.org/10.7146/sjsep.v8i.166850

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