Psychometric Properties of the Network Relationship Inventory-Social Provision Version in Chinese Youth

Given the lack of psychometric research on friendship measures in non-Western countries, this study examined the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the network relationship inventory-social provision version (NRI-SPV-C) in a sample of 200 young adolescents living in China (91 boys; M age = 13.21 years). Results from confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated that a hierarchical structure model with two second-order factors (Social Support, Negative Interactions) and nine first-order factors (Companionship, Intimacy, Instrumental Aid, Nurturance, Affection, Admiration, Reliable Alliance, Conflict, and Antagonism) was the best-fitting model. High internal consistency and high construct reliability were found for all factors. Girls reported higher levels of Social Support compared with boys, though no gender differences emerged for Negative Interactions. Social Support was positively associated with youth’s friendship satisfaction (Satisfaction), whereas Negative Interactions was negatively associated with Satisfaction. Findings suggest the NRI-SPV-C may be a fruitful measure for assessing youth’s friendship quality in China.