Reliability and validity of the Turkish version of spinal cord lesion-related coping strategies

Abstract

Spinal Cord Lesion-Related Coping Strategies Questionnaire (SCL CSQ) is a specific test that is developed for evaluating the coping strategies of the persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of the Turkish version of SCL CSQ (SCL CSQ-T) in persons with SCI. One hundred persons with SCI were included in the study. All participants were evaluated with SCL CSQ-T and Brief Coping Styles Inventory (BCSI) at the baseline. SCL CSQ-T was repeated twice in 15 days. American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale and Functional Independence Measurement were used for the evaluation of the neurological loss severity and functional status. Emotional status was assessed by Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Internal consistency reliability, test-retest reliability and construct validity of SCL CSQ-T were evaluated. Intraclass correlation coefficients of the SCL CSQ-T were between 0.51-0.86. Cronbach's alpha values and test-retest reliability of the acceptance, fighting spirit and social reliance subscales were good. Three factors were found in exploratory factor analysis. There was a positive correlation between the subscales of SCL CSQ-T. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between acceptance strategy of SCL CSQ-T and self-confidence and optimism of BCSI. The fighting spirit strategy positively correlated with self-confidence and optimistic strategies. The social reliance strategy positively correlated with helplessness and seeking social support. Coping strategies did not correlate with HADS. The results of this study revealed good internal consistency reliability, test-retest reliability and concurrent validity of the SCL CSQ-T factors acceptance and fighting spirit in relation to general coping strategies. The coping strategy social reliance needs revisions.