Abstract

The purpose of this research is to construct and validate a multi-dimensional scale of Anti-social
Behaviour (hereafter ASB) in a Western higher education context (i.e. USA). To achieve this, four
studies, each with a different sample, were performed. Study 1 (n = 150) followed an exploratory
design to generate a pool of potential items measuring ASB. Study 2 (n = 254) explored the
dimensionality of the items produced in Study 1 using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and
reliability measures. Study 3 (n = 654) confirmed the factorial structure from Study 2 and assessed
the measurement model invariance using structural equation modelling (SEM).
Finally, Study 4 (n = 287) assessed the predictive validity of the ASB measure through testing a hypothetical path model linking ASB to narcissism and
Machiavellianism via an SEM procedure. In total, our research findings conclude that the ASB
measurement model is a two-factor multi-dimensional structure comprising: Interpersonal
Antagonistic Behaviour (six items) as well as Indirect Distractive Behaviour (four items). The
research and practical implications for universities are thereafter discussed.