Evaluation of two weight stigma scales in Malaysian university students: Weight self-stigma questionnaire and perceived weight stigma scale
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
10-1-2022
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the Weight Self-Stigma Questionnaire (WSSQ) and Perceived Weight Stigma Scale (PWS) among Malaysian university students. Methods University students who were studying in a Malaysia university with a mean age of 24.0 years (n = 380; females 71.6%) were recruited through convenience sampling between 19 August and 30 September 2021. They completed a Google Form consisting of information on sociodemographic background, weight stigma, psychological distress and self-reported body weight and height. Psychometric testing was conducted using the classical test theory (including confirmatory factor analysis) and Rasch models to confirm the two-factor structure of WSSQ and the unidimensional structure of the PWS using the various fit indices. Concurrent validity of the total scores of WSSQ and PWS with psychological distress and body mass index (BMI) was also investigated. Internal consistency using Cronbach's alpha was conducted. Results The confirmatory factor analyses and Rasch analyses verified the two-factor structure for the WSSQ and the single-factor structure for the PWS. Both the WSSQ and PWS showed good internal consistency and good concurrent validity as demonstrated by their significant correlations with psychological distress and BMI. Conclusion The WSSQ and PWS have strong validity and reliability, and they can both be used to assess weight stigma among Malaysian university students.
Keywords
Weight stigma, Psychometrics, Evaluation instrument, Weight, Young adults
Divisions
Education
Funders
Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan [MOST 110-2410-H-006-115],Higher Education Sprout Project, Ministry of Education,University Advancement at National Cheng Kung University (NCKU)
Publication Title
Eating and Weight Disorders-Studies on Anorexia Bulimia and Obesity
Volume
27
Issue
7
Publisher
Springer
Publisher Location
ONE NEW YORK PLAZA, SUITE 4600, NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES