Abstract
ABSTRACTMetamemory measures provide subjective memory information and are relevant to investigate memory ability in aging. However, there is a lack of metamemory instruments available in Brazil. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the Brazilian version of the Multifactorial Memory Questionnaire (MMQ), which evaluates different dimensions of subjective memory functioning, such as Feelings, Abilities and Strategies used in everyday life. Methods: The MMQ was translated into Portuguese and administered to 30 Brazilian elderly subjects. The participants underwent cognitive tests, mood scales and metamemory instruments. Results: Analyses revealed good internal consistency (Cronbach's a coefficient ranged from 0.75 to 0.89) and test-retest validity for each MMQ dimensions (positive correlations between two applications ranged from 0.75 to 0.8). Convergent validity evidence for the MMQ was confirmed by significant positive correlations (0.47 to 0.68) with dimensions of the Metamemory in Adulthood scale (MIA) (i.e., the Ability, Control, Self-efficacy and Strategy dimensions). Discriminant validity revealed no associations between the MMQ and cognitive performance, suggesting a weak metamemory-objective memory correspondence. Moreover, there was a negative correlation between MMQ-Ability subscale scores and mood symptoms (-0.63 for anxious symptoms, and -0.54 for depressive symptoms); and the Brazilian MMQ was comparable with MMQ translations to other languages. Conclusion: The Brazilian MMQ exhibits good psychometric properties and appears promising for clinical and research purposes. Additional studies are needed to further examine the psychometric properties of the Brazilian MMQ in a larger sample.
Highlights
Metamemory is frequently defined as knowledge about one’s own memory functioning,[1,2,3] and the monitoring and control processes that allow subjects to regulate their memory activity and content.[4]
The Contentment dimension of the Memory Questionnaire (MMQ) was significantly correlated with the Ability item and Self-Efficacy factor on the Metamemory in Adulthood scale (MIA) (r = 0.49, p < 0.05; and r = 0.47, p < 0.05). These results indicate that a high degree of memory satisfaction was significantly associated with more positive perceptions about one’s own ability to memorize (Ability), and possibly better locus of control in memory abilities and perceptions of memory changes related to the aging process (Locus and Change items)
Our results showed that the Brazilian MMQ had psychometric strengths for use in older adults
Summary
Metamemory is frequently defined as knowledge about one’s own memory functioning,[1,2,3] and the monitoring and control processes that allow subjects to regulate their memory activity and content.[4]. In older adults, beliefs in memory efficacy appear to be weaker than in younger individuals,[7,9] where elders tend to be convinced of a decline over time and report less control over their memory function than younger adults.[10,11] Other evidence suggests that beliefs about one’s potential to use memory effectively influence the self-selected exposure to memory-demanding situations, degree of effort and actual performance.[9,12,13,14]
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