Initial development of the adolescent perceived prejudice scale

Abstract

Adolescence is a period marked by rapid changes in development, which may lead to stereotypes and prejudice (Lesko, 2000). Past research suggests that adults endorse negative stereotypes about adolescents, including that teenagers are narcissistic, rowdy, promiscuous, lazy, and preoccupied with technology (e.g., Aubrun & Grady, 2000; Scales, 2001), which adolescents likely perceive (Poppler & Scott, under review). However, there currently is no measure that assesses adolescents' perceptions of adult prejudice towards them or their relations to mental health outcomes. The current study aimed to develop a novel measure (i.e., Adolescent Perceived Prejudice Scale; APPS) and provide initial support for validity. An iterative process was used to develop the initial APPS and included reviewing past literature (e.g., Aubrun & Grady, 2000; Poppler & Scott, under review) and input from expert consultants (n = 3) and adolescents (n = 4). Two-hundred and twelve adolescents (14-18 years-old; 67.0% female; 52.4% white) participated in an online survey which included the APPS, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, ageism toward older adults, and social desirability measures. Principle factor analyses led to a 29-item version of the APPS assessing six distinct yet related factors: character criticism, preoccupation with technology, promiscuity, high emotionalism, inferiority, and troublemaking. Results also showed evidence of reliability and preliminary support for validity. The current research expands upon past research by developing a novel measure of adolescents' perceived prejudice. Findings suggest that forms of ageism (i.e., prejudicial beliefs based on age) may extend beyond older adult populations and toward adolescents. Opportunities for future research are discussed.