Validation of the Weight Concerns Scale Applied to Brazilian University Students

Author(s)

Ribeiro Dias, Juliana Chioda ^[1] ; da Silva, Wanderson Roberto ^[1] ; Maroco, Joao ^{[2, 3]} ; Duarte Bonini Campos, Juliana Alvares ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Estadual Paulista UNESP, Fac Ciencias Farmaceut Araraquara, Sao Paulo - Brazil

^[2] IU, ISPA, Dept Ciencias Psicol, P-1149041 Lisbon - Portugal

^[3] IU, ISPA, Unidade Invest Psicol & Saude, P-1149041 Lisbon - Portugal

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: BODY IMAGE; v. 14, p. 72-76, JUN 2015.
• Web of Science Citations: 2

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Portuguese version of the Weight Concerns Scale (WCS) when applied to Brazilian university students. The scale was completed by 1084 university students from Brazilian public education institutions. A confirmatory factor analysis was conducted. The stability of the model in independent samples was assessed through multigroup analysis, and the invariance was estimated. Convergent, concurrent, divergent, and criterion validities as well as internal consistency were estimated. Results indicated that the one-factor model presented an adequate fit to the sample and values of convergent validity. The concurrent validity with the Body Shape Questionnaire and divergent validity with the Maslach Burnout Inventory for Students were adequate. Internal consistency was adequate, and the factorial structure was invariant in independent subsamples. The results present a simple and short instrument capable of precisely and accurately assessing concerns with weight among Brazilian university students. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 10/18279-3 - Validity study of Weight Concerns Scale and Perceived Stress Scale
• Grantee: Juliana Alvares Duarte Bonini Campos
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants