The paranormal health beliefs scale: an evaluation using cognitive interviewing

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Health Behavior
• Sociology of Health

Background:

• Paranormal health beliefs influence health perceptions and behaviors.
• The Paranormal Health Beliefs Scale (PHBS) was developed in Italy but requires further investigation for generalizability.
• Cultural specificity may limit the PHBS's applicability across diverse populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the suitability of the PHBS for general use through cognitive interviewing.
• To identify necessary modifications to enhance the scale's performance and cross-cultural validity.
• To explore the utility of focusing on 'illusory' rather than 'paranormal' health beliefs.

Main Methods:

• Cognitive interviewing, including think-aloud protocol and concurrent probing, was employed.
• Fourteen participants were involved across two rounds of interviews.
• A modified version of the PHBS was developed and evaluated based on initial feedback.

Main Results:

• Initial interviews highlighted issues with culturally specific content, phrasing, and wording.
• A revised scale showed fewer problems, but ambiguity, complex terminology, and response scale appropriateness remained concerns.
• Focusing on 'illusory' health beliefs was suggested to improve scale utility.

Conclusions:

• Cognitive interviewing provided critical insights into the PHBS's effectiveness and limitations.
• The PHBS requires adaptation for broader international application.
• Modifications, including a shift in terminology, may enhance the scale's cross-cultural utility in studying health beliefs.