So you think you're bulletproof: Development and validation of the Invincibility Belief Index (IBI)

Mil Med. 2010 Jul;175(7):499-508. doi: 10.7205/milmed-d-09-00240.

Abstract

Risk-taking propensity can be influenced by sensation-seeking traits and self-perceived invincibility. We hypothesized that the latter factor may reflect a stable trait that endures across situations and may influence risk-taking behavior. We developed and validated a 20-item scale, the Invincibility Belief Index (IBI) to measure this construct. The IBI demonstrated good internal consistency and excellent test-retest reliability in the development sample (n = 100) and sustained similar levels of reliability in a cross-validation sample (n = 74). Principal components analysis yielded three orthogonal factors measuring self-perceived impunity (immunity from consequences), boldness/audacity (self-assuredness and competitiveness), and adroitness (mental agility and survival skill). In the prediction of risk taking, IBI scores contributed additional unique variance beyond sensation-seeking scores alone. IBI scores demonstrated convergent and discriminant validity with concurrently administered measures. These preliminary results support the reliability and validity of the IBI as a brief measure of self-perceived vulnerability-invincibility in the face of adversity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Combat Disorders / psychology
  • Culture*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Military Personnel / psychology*
  • Military Psychiatry / methods*
  • Principal Component Analysis
  • Psychometrics
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Risk-Taking*
  • Self Concept*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • United States