Invariance Testing of the Disablement in the Physically Active Scale Short Form-10

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation science
• Psychometrics
• Clinical assessment

Background:

• Accurate measurement tools are crucial for tracking treatment effectiveness and patient care quality.
• The Disablement in the Physically Active Short Form-10 (DPA SF-10) was created as a brief version of the DPA scale for active individuals.
• The DPA SF-10's psychometric properties have not been fully evaluated, particularly its performance over time.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the psychometric properties of the DPA SF-10.
• To utilize confirmatory factor analysis and invariance testing across multiple time points.
• To assess the DPA SF-10's reliability and validity in a longitudinal context.

Main Methods:

• Confirmatory factor analyses were performed.
• Longitudinal invariance tests were conducted to assess stability over time.
• Statistical methods were employed to evaluate scale properties.

Main Results:

• The DPA SF-10 met recommended fit index standards.
• Longitudinal invariance was demonstrated, indicating stability.
• However, localized fit issues were identified, suggesting areas for improvement.

Conclusions:

• The DPA SF-10 requires additional psychometric testing and modifications.
• Widespread clinical and research adoption is not recommended at this time.
• Further validation is necessary before the DPA SF-10 can be reliably used.