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Reliability and validity of the Overeating Tension Scale
S Popkess-Vawter1, M M Gerkovich, S Wendel
1University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, USA.
Journal of Nursing Measurement
|March 3, 2001
Summary
This study developed the Overeating Tension Scale to measure tension related to overeating. The validated 32-item scale helps assess psychological factors contributing to eating behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Health Psychology
Background:
- Overeating is a complex behavior influenced by psychological factors.
- Tension and motivation-specific states play a role in overeating.
- A reliable scale is needed to measure overeating tension.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate the Overeating Tension Scale (OTS).
- To operationalize overeating tension as a discrepancy between actual and desired feelings before overeating.
- To assess overall and motivation-specific tension related to overeating.
Main Methods:
- Scale development based on Apter's Reversal Theory.
- Iterative item refinement across four studies (total N = 1071).
- Psychometric testing including reliability (internal consistency) and validity (construct, convergent, factor analysis).
Main Results:
- The final Overeating Tension Scale comprises 32 items.
- Evidence supports the scale's internal consistency reliability.
- The scale demonstrated construct validity with contrasted groups (overweight vs. normal weight), convergent validity, and factor analysis support.
Conclusions:
- The Overeating Tension Scale is a reliable and valid instrument.
- The scale can be used to measure psychological tension associated with overeating.
- Findings contribute to understanding the psychological underpinnings of eating behaviors.
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