P. Sandeep, J. Charles Jeeva, P. S. Ananthan, V. Geethalakshmi, S. S. Raju, S. D. Argade

Development of a scale to measure the perception of stakeholders towards marine fisheries governance: A methodological approach from a case study in Andhra Pradesh

Introduction

Development of a scale to measure the perception of stakeholders towards marine fisheries governance: a methodological approach from a case study in andhra pradesh. Develops a reliable & valid psychological scale to measure stakeholder perceptions of marine fisheries governance, specifically APMFRA, in Andhra Pradesh.

Abstract

This study aims at development of a psychological scale to measure the perception of stakeholders towards the Andhra Pradesh Marine Fisheries Regulation Act (APMFRA). The collection of items included 31 statements covering the dimensions such as zonation, registration, licensing, monitoring, implementation, conservation related fishing regulations, penalty structures and effectiveness. The 31 statements were evaluated by a group of 34 judges representing research, education and extension in the field of fisheries and social sciences, through which 18 statements were selected with relevancy percentage of more than 61 %, and mean relevancy score of more than 1.85. Through t-test item analysis, the final perception scale was constructed with 10 statements with t value of more than 1.75, out of the 18 statements. The scale has demonstrated both reliability and validity, confirming its consistency and accuracy in measuring perceptions of APMFRA. The administration of the scale among the stakeholders would elicit their perception towards the Act, and the areas to be strengthened for effective fisheries governance such as the regulations which are to be strengthened with the incorporation of scientific advisories, technological measures and conflict resolution mechanisms. Keywords: APMFRA, Attitude, Fishing regulations, Governance, Psychological scale

Review

This study presents a timely and valuable contribution to the field of fisheries management and social science by meticulously detailing the development of a psychological scale to gauge stakeholder perceptions towards the Andhra Pradesh Marine Fisheries Regulation Act (APMFRA). The methodological approach outlined is commendable, addressing a critical need for standardized tools to assess the human dimension in natural resource governance. By focusing on a specific regulatory framework, the research provides a practical instrument that can illuminate the effectiveness and perceived fairness of governance initiatives, which is essential for adaptive management and policy formulation in complex socio-ecological systems. The methodology for scale construction is robust and systematically presented. Beginning with an initial pool of 31 statements encompassing crucial dimensions such as zonation, licensing, monitoring, and conservation, the study employed a rigorous two-stage item selection process. Expert judgment from 34 professionals in fisheries and social sciences refined the statements to 18 based on relevancy criteria. Subsequently, t-test item analysis further distilled these into a final, parsimonious scale of 10 statements. The abstract explicitly states that this final scale has demonstrated both reliability and validity, underscoring its consistency and accuracy for measuring perceptions, which are foundational requirements for any psychometric instrument. The utility of the developed scale extends beyond its immediate application in Andhra Pradesh. Its administration among stakeholders is projected to not only elicit their perceptions of APMFRA but also to pinpoint specific areas requiring reinforcement within the governance framework. This includes identifying regulations that could benefit from scientific advisories, technological integration, and the establishment of robust conflict resolution mechanisms. As such, this methodological contribution offers a practical tool for policymakers and researchers alike to foster more participatory, evidence-based, and effective marine fisheries governance worldwide.

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