Evaluation of two weight stigma scales in Malaysian university students: weight self-stigma questionnaire and perceived weight stigma scale

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the Weight Self-Stigma Questionnaire (WSSQ) and Perceived Weight Stigma Scale (PWS) among Malaysian university students. Methods: University students who were studying in a Malaysia university with a mean age of 24.0 years (n = 380; females 71.6%) were recruited through convenience sampling between 19 August and 30 September 2021. They completed a Google Form consisting of information on sociodemographic background, weight stigma, psychological distress and self-reported body weight and height. Psychometric testing was conducted using the classical test theory (including confirmatory factor analysis) and Rasch models to confirm the two-factor structure of WSSQ and the unidimensional structure of the PWS using the various fit indices. Concurrent validity of the total scores of WSSQ and PWS with psychological distress and body mass index (BMI) was also investigated. Internal consistency using Cronbach’s alpha was conducted. Results: The confirmatory factor analyses and Rasch analyses verified the two-factor structure for the WSSQ and the single-factor structure for the PWS. Both the WSSQ and PWS showed good internal consistency and good concurrent validity as demonstrated by their significant correlations with psychological distress and BMI. Conclusion: The WSSQ and PWS have strong validity and reliability, and they can both be used to assess weight stigma among Malaysian university students. Level of evidence: V: Descriptive study.