A psychometric assessment of a self- efficacy eating consumption scale

Abstract

Background: We evaluated the reliability, factorial validity and criteria validity of a psychometric test designed to measure eating behavior self- efficacy. Materials and methods: This construct was measured using a 21 item scale appplied to a sample of 300 between 14 and 74 years (M=29.89), from the Metropolitan Area of México City, Mexico. Results: Data analysis revealed a four factor structure with high reliability. These factors characterized 4 different types of eating behaviors: 1) high fat eating consumption; 2) healthy eating consumption; 3) sweets consumption and 4) drink consumption. Additionally, we measured physical activity as a factor that could be related with healthy eating. Conclusion. We analyzed feasibility of using this psychometric tool to assess self-efficacy in our sample and its potential implication for nutritional programs. It is also considered feasible to apply this scale in new settings, such as educational programs on nutrition and in the nutritionist practice, since it can provide a predictive tool for eating behaviors.

Objetivo: Evaluar la confiabilidad, la validez factorial y de criterio de un instrumento diseñado para medir autoeficacia alimentaria. Material y métodos: Se utilizó una escala de estimación de 21 ítems, aplicado a una muestra de 300 personas entre 14 y 74 años de edad (M= 29.89) de la Zona Metropolitana de la Ciudad de México, México. Resultados: El instrumento incorporó cuatro factores: 1) consumo de alimentos altos en grasa; 2) consumo de alimentos saludables; 3) consumo de alimentos dulces y 4) consumo de bebidas. Se encontró que la capacidad de alimentarse sanamente se encuentra presente en las personas que realizan actividad física frecuentemente. Conclusiones: Se plantea su utilidad en la evaluación de la autoeficacia de la conducta alimentaria en contextos como los programas de educación nutricional y la práctica del nutriólogo. Este instrumento puede proveer de una herramienta predictora de las conductas alimentarias.