Developing a 3-Item Transportation Security Index

Principal Investigator(s):

Alexandra K. Murphy, Assistant Professor of Sociology – The University of Michigan

Project Abstract:
This project aims to develop and validate a 3-item Transportation Security Index (TSI), a measure designed to directly capture the experience of transportation insecurity at the individual level regardless of mode of transit or geography. Currently, there is a validated 16-item longform TSI and a 6-item shortform. However, questionnaire length directly impacts survey costs and respondent burden. To make it easier for planners, researchers, and policymakers to utilize the TSI in their own work, an even shorter shortform is needed. To develop a preliminary 3-item shortform we will use existing qualitative and quantitative data. We will then seek to replicate and validate this shortform by fielding an original nationally representative survey. To validate the shortform, we will assess the level of agreement between the TSI3 and the TSI6. We will also compare the predictive power of each of these TSI forms by examining how they each are associated with key outcomes, including physical and mental health. To demonstrate the utility of the TSI tool, we will draw on data from the Detroit Metropolitan Area Communities Study to produce a report examining transportation insecurity in Detroit.

Institution(s): University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

Award Year: 2024

Research Focus: Fairness

Project Form(s):