The EDE-Q in Hebrew: Structural and Convergent/Divergent Validity in a Population Sample

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychometrics
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• The Eating Disorders Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) is a widely used English tool for screening and diagnosing eating disorders (EDs).
• Validation of translated versions is crucial for international clinical and research applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the structural validity, convergent validity, and screening properties of a Hebrew translation of the EDE-Q.
• To assess the psychometric performance of the EDE-Q in a non-clinical Israeli community sample.

Main Methods:

• The EDE-Q was translated into Hebrew and administered online to 292 community volunteers.
• Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were used to assess structural validity.
• Convergent validity and screening properties were evaluated using established self-report instruments.

Main Results:

• Factor analyses largely supported the original EDE-Q structure, with weight and shape concerns forming a single factor.
• The Hebrew EDE-Q demonstrated good convergent validity.
• The instrument showed effective screening properties for eating disorders in the study sample.

Conclusions:

• The Hebrew version of the EDE-Q possesses favorable psychometric properties, similar to other validated translations.
• This study validates the EDE-Q for use in Israel, expanding its availability to clinicians and researchers.
• Further research with larger and more diverse populations is recommended to explore its utility.