Measuring circadian preference in adolescence with the Morningness-Eveningness Stability Scale improved (MESSi)

Abstract

ABSTRACT Differences in daytime preferences are mainly manifested in the variability of sleep and wakefulness. Circadian preference shows a great influence on health and daily routine. Further, circadian preference and chronotype changes throughout the life span. A wide-ranging determination of circadian preference is therefore important. This study presents a validation of the MESSi in adolescents. The MESSi determines the individual circadian phase and amplitude based on three sub-scales: Morningness (MA), Eveningness (EV) and Stability/Distinctness (DI). Based on three studies, the convergent validity of the MESSi was analyzed (N = 215). In study 1 the Pediatric daytime sleepiness scale (PDSS) was applied, in study 2 the Composite Scale of Morningness (CSM) and in study 3 the Children’s ChronoType Questionnaire (CCTQ). The MESSi showed a good convergent validity with all sum-scores of the three measurements. A Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) proved the three-structure model of the MESSi. The fit indices were good (TLI = 0.966, and CFI o = 0.972). The RMSEA was also good with 0.045 and PCLOSE was not significant (p = 0.651). The results support the assumption that the MESSi is a valid instrument with a three-factor structure to measure circadian phase and amplitude in adolescents.