Psychometric Properties of the Thai Version of the Weight Stigma Exposure Inventory (WeSEI)

Abstract

Background: Weight stigma is prevalent and has multiple sources, which have significant effects on individual, social, physical, and psychological health. This study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Thai version of WeSEI to provide a valid tool to assess weight stigma in Thai young adults. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey recruited 517 Thai university students from October 2024 to May 2025. All participants completed demographic information and standardized self-reported instruments, including WeSEI, Depression, Anxiety, and Stress scale 21 (DASS-21), Weight Self-Stigma Questionnaire (WSSQ), and Perceived Weight Stigma Scale (PWSS). The psychometric properties of the Thai version of WeSEI were examined via confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) with some validity indices. Results: The 7-factor structure of the Thai version of the WeSEI was supported across sex and weight status subgroups, indicating good construct validity. In addition, internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.972; McDonald’s ω = 0.972), convergent, and discriminant validity also indicated that the Thai version of the WeSEI had good psychometric properties and assessed weight stigma among young people in Thailand. Conclusions: Sound psychometric properties of the Thai adaptation of WeSEI allows the identification of various sources contributing to weight stigma and to identify those experiencing high levels of weight stigma. It also provides evidence to support targeted interventions to reduce weight stigma and its associated mental health impacts in further research. Further studies are necessary to explore the utilization of WeSEI for weight stigma in Thailand.