The validity, reliability, and psychometric properties of the Turkish version of the Digital Amnesia Scale

The widespread use of digital technologies has significantly influenced individuals' cognitive processes and behavioral patterns. Alongside this change, the concept of digital amnesia, defined as the tendency to offload information onto digital devices, has emerged. This study aimed to adapt the Digital Amnesia Scale (DAS) to Turkish and evaluate its validity and reliability in the Turkish cultural context.

This methodological study was conducted between September 1, 2025, and October 30, 2025 with individuals aged 18 years and older. A total of 205 students who consented to participate formed the study sample. Data were collected using a Personal Information Form, the Digital Addiction Scale, and the Digital Amnesia Scale. The scale's validity was assessed through content, construct, and criterion-related validity analyses, while reliability was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha coefficients. Descriptive statistics, reliability analyses, correlation analyses, and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were employed for statistical evaluation.

Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the original three-factor structure of the scale was preserved. Unstandardized factor loadings ranged between 0.742 and 1.371, while standardized factor loadings ranged between 0.21 and 0.85. Cronbach's alpha for the overall scale was 0.844, with subdimension values ranging from 0.713 to 0.864. Criterion-related validity analyses revealed a moderate, positive, and significant correlation between the Digital Amnesia Scale and the Digital Addiction Scale.

The Turkish version of the Digital Amnesia Scale was found to be a valid and reliable measure in adult populations. The scale can be used in public health-based research to assess digital behaviors and cognitive health indicators.