Psychometric evaluation and validation of the Brain Fag Syndrome Scale among students at Bayero University Kano

Abstract

Background: This study delved into the Psychometric Evaluation and Validation of the Brain Fag Syndrome Scale (BFSS) among students at Bayero University Kano. Documented extensively among African students, particularly in academic settings, Brain Fag Syndrome (BFS) is rooted in recurrent mental exhaustion impacting students emotionally and physically. As the concept of BFS as an exhaustion syndrome emerged, a thorough examination of its psychometric properties became essential. Methods: Employing a cross-sectional survey design, 625 3rd-year undergraduate students from Bayero University Kano were randomly selected, representing 89.3% of the intended sample size. Socio-demographic characteristics were explored, scale reliability was measured using Cronbach's alpha, and Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was conducted to unveil the BFSS latent structure. The Brain Fag Syndrome and Fatigue Assessment Questionnaire development stemmed from identified components related to Fatigue and Exhaustion. Results: Analysis with SPSS v26 included all 625 participants with complete data. BFSS exhibited moderate to good reliability (Cronbach's alpha ≈ 0.738). EFA identified a distinct "Fatigue and Exhaustion Factor," strongly linked to fatigue and concentration challenges. A scree plot aided in retaining optimal factors, highlighting the dominance of the identified factor. Conclusion: This study significantly contributes to the validation of the Brain Fag Syndrome Scale (BFSS) and the derivation of a prototype questionnaire for fatigue and exhaustion syndrome. The identified factors align with the evolving understanding of BFS as an exhaustion syndrome, informing diagnostic criteria refinement and enriching the discourse on students' psychological well-being within a cultural context.