Is there a higher-order factor of alcohol-related protective behavioral strategies? Further analysis of the Protective Behavioral Strategies Scale’s (PBSS) factor structure

Abstract

Background Although it is a widely used instrument, there is still no consensus related to the factor structure of the Protective Behavioral Strategies Scale (PBSS), particularly the function of a higher-order protective behavioral strategies (PBS) factor is needed to be explored. The present research aimed to test and validate competing measurement models of the PBSS, with a special focus on exploring the role of a higher-order PBS factor. Method Two independent samples of university students (between 18-29 years of age) who reported alcohol use in the past 12 months were used. Overall, 327 and 488 participants were included in the present study (females: 68% and 71%). The questionnaire assessed excessive alcohol consumption and PBS use. Results Based on a series of confirmatory factor analyses, the second-order factor model with a higher order factor and four first-order factors presented the most parsimonious solution and closest fit to the data in both samples. Validation analyses indicated that the higher-order factor of PBS use and the first order factor of manner of drinking (MOD) and stopping/limiting drinking-mixing (SLD-M) were consistently associated with lower level of excessive alcohol use. Conclusions Present findings supported the role of a higher-order factor of PBS use which might represent a general measure of PBS. First-order PBS factors showed divergent harm-reduction capacity: MOD and SLD-M rather than Planned limits strategies (SLD-P) were associated with more beneficial alcohol use-related outcomes.