Dimensional structure, psychometric properties, and sex invariance of a Bahasa Malaysia (Malay) translation of the Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire–Appearance Scales (MBSRQ–AS) in Malaysian Malay adults

Abstract

The 34-item Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire–Appearance Scales (MBSRQ–AS) is a widely-used measure of multidimensional body image. Here, we examined the psychometric properties of a Bahasa Malaysia (Malay) translation of the MBSRQ–AS. A sample of 629 Malaysian Malays (women n = 315) completed the MBSRQ–AS, as well as measures of body appreciation, psychological well-being, perceptions of appearance ideals, and internalisation of appearance ideals. Exploratory factor analysis indicated that the MBSRQ–AS items reduced to four dimensions, although one factor had less-than-adequate internal consistency. Omitting this factor resulted in a 23-item 3-factor solution, which we tested for fit using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) alongside the parent 5-factor model. CFA indicated that both models had good fit on some indices, but less-than-ideal fit on other indices, with the 3-factor model showing comparatively better fit. Multi-group CFA indicated that it was not possible to achieve scalar invariance across sex, but internal consistency coefficients were adequate. Evidence of construct validity, as assessed through correlations between MBSRQ–AS scores and additional measures, was mixed. We discuss reasons that complicate interpretation of the dimensionality of MBSRQ–AS scores in this and previous studies, and call for further research on this issue.