Arabic-speaking Populations Research Articles

Validity, Reliability, and Cultural Adaptability of the Arabic Cognitive Flexibility Scale (Ar-CFS) Among Saudi Arabians: A Two-Cohort Investigation

Background/objectives: Cognitive flexibility is the mental skill that allows a person to shift between different ideas or concepts and think about several concepts simultaneously. A commonly used tool to assess cognitive flexibility is the Cognitive Flexibility Scale (CFS). This study focused on translating and validating the CFS into Arabic, given the lack of existing Arabic tools for assessing cognitive flexibility. Methods: Conducted at King Saud University, Riyadh, between April and June 2024, the study employed random sampling and involved 529 participants, including 419 students and 110 patients. Results: The average participant age was 25.8 years, with females making up 56.9% of the sample. Participants completed the Arabic CFS, along with the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), at two time points 3–6 weeks apart. Reliability was evaluated through internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.8) and test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.82). Item analysis indicated that removing any single item did not significantly impact overall reliability, and inter-item correlations were strongest between items 4 and 6 (0.55) and items 6 and 7 (0.51). Validity was assessed through face, content, and construct validity, with factor analysis revealing a dominant single component accounting for 34.4% of the variance, confirming the scale’s unidimensionality. Content validity indices for all items exceeded 0.9 in terms of relevance, importance, simplicity, and clarity. The Arabic CFS demonstrated good construct validity, showing significant correlations with the ERQ’s reappraisal and suppression dimensions and the PSS. Conclusion: In conclusion, the Arabic version of the CFS is a valid and reliable tool for assessing cognitive flexibility in Arabic-speaking populations. This tool will be valuable in both clinical and research settings within Saudi Arabia, offering a robust instrument for evaluating cognitive flexibility.

Predicting language, cognition, and social skills in individuals with Autism spectrum disorder using the Arabic validation of Gilliam Autism Rating scale-Third Edition

The Gilliam Autism Rating Scale-Third Edition (GARS-3) has emerged as a pivotal instrument in the diagnostic assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with its utility extending across linguistic and cultural boundaries. This study endeavors to adapt and validate the GARS-3 for the Arabic-speaking population, addressing the paucity of culturally congruent diagnostic tools in the Arab world. The primary objective is to validate the Arabic version of GARS-3 (A-GARS-3) to assess children with and without ASD, ensuring the scale’s reliability and validity within the target population. A methodical cross-sectional study design was employed, encompassing a sample of 178 participants from both educational and clinical settings in Saudi Arabia. The process involved direct translation, expert panel review, back-translation, and pilot testing to ensure semantic equivalence and cultural relevance. Data were collected using the A-GARS-3, and analyses included Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (EFA and CFA), internal consistency reliability measures, and a One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to establish concurrent validity. The A-GARS-3 demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.971; McDonald’s omega = 0.972) and strong construct validity, with factor loadings and model fit indices substantiating the factor structure. Predictive validity was confirmed through significant correlations between the Autism Index and the subscales, particularly in the domains of social interaction and communication. The A-GARS-3 is a psychometrically sound instrument that offers reliable assessment for ASD within the Arab cultural context. The positive validation outcomes indicate that the scale is an effective, culturally adapted tool for the localized diagnosis of ASD. The validated scale has significant implications for enhancing ASD screening and diagnostic practices in Arabic-speaking regions, potentially improving early diagnosis and intervention strategies.

Assessing primary Tokophobia among Lebanese childless men and nulliparous women: psychometric validation of the Arabic versions of the fathers’ fear of childbirth scale and Tokophobia severity scale

IntroductionTokophobia is an intense and pathological fear of pregnancy and childbirth. Despite its significance, no research in Lebanon has investigated primary tokophobia within the general population. Nevertheless, it is crucial to assess the attitudes of both women and men, as potential future parents, towards pregnancy and childbirth, particularly during these challenging times for the Lebanese population. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Tokophobia Severity Scale (TSS) and Fathers’ Fear of Childbirth Scale (FFCS) for assessing primary tokophobia among Lebanese nulliparous women and childless men, respectively.MethodsThis cross-sectional investigation encompassed all Lebanese governorates; 651 women and 618 men were recruited via social media platforms, using a snowball sampling technique. The questionnaire included the Tokophobia Severity Scale, the Fathers’ Fear of Childbirth Scale, the Patient Health Questionnaire, and the Lebanese Anxiety Scale.ResultsFactorial analysis of the TSS in women revealed a three-factor model: concerns related to personal complications (Factor 1), fetal well-being (Factor 2), and outward behavioral responses to fear (Factor 3). The FFCS also yielded a three-factor measurement model: emotional responses during the partner’s childbirth (Factor 1), concerns regarding the hospital environment during childbirth (Factor 2), and anxieties surrounding the perinatal health of both the partner and child (Factor 3). Both scales were internally consistent with Cronbach’s alpha > 0.9, indicating their reliability. The TSS and FFCS demonstrated statistically significant correlations with measures of anxiety and depression, thus attesting to convergent validity.ConclusionThe results of this study provide evidence for the psychometric validity and reliability of the TSS and FFCS scales in Arabic-speaking populations. Given the previously overlooked nature of primary tokophobia in these populations, the availability of these validated instruments can significantly enhance the ability to detect and address this condition, ultimately facilitating the provision of necessary support services.

Arabic Translation and Rasch Validation of PROMIS Anxiety Short Form among General Population in Saudi Arabia.

This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and psychometrically validate the PROMIS Anxiety Short Form 8a item bank into Arabic for the general population of Saudi Arabia. The PROMIS Anxiety Short Form was translated according to the FACIT group method. Second, psychometric validation was conducted on a convenience sample of 322 participants (mean age, 26 ± 10.4 years; predominantly female) from the general population in Saudi Arabia. Rasch analysis (Winsteps® version 5.6.1) was used to examine category functioning, item fit, the person separation index, item difficulty, unidimensionality, and local dependency. Translation and cultural adaptation demonstrated that most of the items were culturally suitable and conveyed the same underlying concepts as the original scale. The five response categories of the scale satisfied the category functioning criteria, and all items fit the underlying construct, with the exception of one item that demonstrated a misfit. The item difficulty demonstrated poor targeting for the sample population; however, the person separation index and reliability were good (2.67 and 0.88, respectively) and no local dependency was noted. The Arabic translation of PROMIS-A SF8a demonstrated good structural validity and psychometrics, making it a valuable tool for screening anxiety in Arabic-speaking populations. The application of this outcome measure shows promise for healthcare professionals and patients alike, as it contributes to the provision of high-quality care and formulation of appropriate treatment plans.

Cyber-moral panic and language: criminalisation of Arabic in Turkish social media from 1999 to 2024

ABSTRACT This study investigates the nature and extent of moral panic (Cohen, S. (1972) 2011. Folk Devils and Moral Panics. 1st ed. Routledge) surrounding Arabic in Turkey from 1999 to 2024, using Ekşi Sözlük, a popular online forum in Turkey. All the topic titles related to Arabic within this time period (N = 1026) were compiled, yielding a corpus of 18,343 comments about Arabic. A six-phase thematic analysis (Braun, V., and V. Clarke. 2006. “Using Thematic Analysis in Psychology.” Qualitative Research in Psychology 3 (2): 77–101) revealed consistent perceptions of Arabic as a threat to Turkey’s linguistic unity, with a strong desire to limit its use. A notable increase in the instances of moral panic coincided with the rise in the Arabic-speaking population after the 2011 Syrian refugee crisis. Prevalent concerns included the use of Arabic as a sign of invasion and erosion of Turkish identity. Further analysis of 3200 comments, annotated based on whether they fuelled the panic atmosphere or resisted it, revealed a prevailing tendency among users to perpetuate the moral panic. Moral panic contexts elicited significantly more subsequent comments compared to non-moral panic contexts, as revealed by negative binomial regressions, indicating the amplifying effect of this moral panic on online discourse. The findings highlight the evolving dynamics of social control in the digital era amidst the complexities of multilingualism.

Exploring COVID-19 anxiety across demographics: psychometric validation and application of the COVID-19-Anxiety Questionnaire in Arabic

BackgroundThe emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019 imposed significant shifts in global health, particularly in understanding and addressing anxiety disorders precipitated by pandemic-related stressors. The current study aimed to adapt and validate the COVID-19 Anxiety Questionnaire (C-19 A) for Arabic-speaking populations (C-19 A-A), assessing its structural integrity, concurrent validity, factorial validity, and reliability.MethodsThe data of 571 individuals, including age range, educational history, gender, and marital status, were collected through online platforms. The translation process of C-19 A-A underwent rigorous verification by linguistic and subject matter experts. Several advanced statistical procedures were used to examine the C-19 A-A’s reliability, validity, and measurement invariances across demographic subsets.ResultsThe results indicated robust internal consistency, with a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.889, confirming the questionnaire’s reliability. Concurrent validity showed significant and positive correlations between C-19-A and FCV-19S (r = 0.77, p < 0.000). EFA revealed a dominant factor explaining 60.4% of the variance, bolstering the questionnaire’s factorial validity. CFA further validated the model’s adequacy across different demographic groups. Specifically, demographic factors such as age, gender, and educational level showed distinct patterns of COVID-19-related anxiety.ConclusionThe validated Arabic version of the C-19 A-A represents a pivotal tool for assessing pandemic-induced anxiety within Arabic-speaking communities. Its deployment enables targeted identification of vulnerable individuals, facilitating tailored health interventions and informing clinical strategies. This research underscores the pivotal role of culturally attuned assessment instruments in shaping effective public health responses and therapeutic interventions aimed at mitigating the psychological sequelae of global health crises.

YouTube Video Clips on Breastfeeding Education and Promotion for Arabic-Speaking Populations: A Social Media Content Analysis.

Background/Objective: Although the benefits of breastfeeding are well-documented and widely recognized, reports indicate that optimal breastfeeding rates are low in Arabic-speaking countries. This is a significant concern given the health benefits associated with breastfeeding for both infants and mothers. Previous research has shown that education interventions can increase breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes, and practices in Arabic-speaking populations. The social media platform YouTube holds significant potential for distributing customized health education for diverse audiences; specifically, this platform has the potential to empower mothers and normalize long-term breastfeeding. The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of YouTube videos on breastfeeding available in the Arabic language. Methods: We used standard procedures to search YouTube for Arabic breastfeeding videos posted on YouTube in December 2023. Videos were evaluated using the three scales of the DISCERN quality evaluation instrument (reliability, information quality, video quality) and total score. Comparative statistics were generated. Results: In total, 165 videos met the inclusion criteria, with 29.7% in the Education category; 43.6% were in Egyptian Arabic dialect. Almost all (91.75%) of the educational videos had a "medium" quality assessment. Educational videos and those using health professionals had higher quality assessments than those in other categories or done with other speakers. Conclusion: The results of this review suggest that most content on the topic of breastfeeding was of only medium reliability and informational quality. New mothers seeking breastfeeding information or support may be in need of specific problem-solving information at a time when they are living with the often-difficulty reality of caring for a newborn or very young infant. There is a clear need for accurate, culturally congruent information to effectively support breastfeeding in Arabic-speaking countries. Future efforts should focus on improving the quality of online health education content, with implications for public health strategies and policy development.

Assessment of the Quality and Readability of Web-Based Arabic Health Information on Halitosis: Infodemiological Study.

Halitosis, characterized by an undesirable mouth odor, represents a common concern. This study aims to assess the quality and readability of web-based Arabic health information on halitosis as the internet is becoming a prominent global source of medical information. A total of 300 Arabic websites were retrieved from Google using 3 commonly used phrases for halitosis in Arabic. The quality of the websites was assessed using benchmark criteria established by the Journal of the American Medical Association, the DISCERN tool, and the presence of the Health on the Net Foundation Code of Conduct (HONcode). The assessment of readability (Flesch Reading Ease [FRE], Simple Measure of Gobbledygook, and Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level [FKGL]) was conducted using web-based readability indexes. A total of 127 websites were examined. Regarding quality assessment, 87.4% (n=111) of websites failed to fulfill any Journal of the American Medical Association requirements, highlighting a lack of authorship (authors' contributions), attribution (references), disclosure (sponsorship), and currency (publication date). The DISCERN tool had a mean score of 34.55 (SD 7.46), with the majority (n=72, 56.6%) rated as moderate quality, 43.3% (n=55) as having a low score, and none receiving a high DISCERN score, indicating a general inadequacy in providing quality health information to make decisions and treatment choices. No website had HONcode certification, emphasizing the concern over the credibility and trustworthiness of these resources. Regarding readability assessment, Arabic halitosis websites had high readability scores, with 90.5% (n=115) receiving an FRE score ≥80, 98.4% (n=125) receiving a Simple Measure of Gobbledygook score <7, and 67.7% (n=86) receiving an FKGL score <7. There were significant correlations between the DISCERN scores and the quantity of words (P<.001) and sentences (P<.001) on the websites. Additionally, there was a significant relationship (P<.001) between the number of sentences and FKGL and FRE scores. While readability was found to be very good, indicating that the information is accessible to the public, the quality of Arabic halitosis websites was poor, reflecting a significant gap in providing reliable and comprehensive health information. This highlights the need for improving the availability of high-quality materials to ensure Arabic-speaking populations have access to reliable information about halitosis and its treatment options, tying quality and availability together as critical for effective health communication.

Cross-cultural adaptation of the Arabic version of the oral health values scale.

The study aimed to adapt the original English-language oral health values scale (OHVS) to the Arabic culture and to test its psychometric properties. The original OHVS was translated into Arabic language and pre-tested using cognitive interviewing. The psychometric properties of Arabic OHVS were examined in a sample comprising 416 Libyan adults aged 18-70 years, recruited from the main public and private dental clinics in Benghazi. The participants' demographic information, oral health behaviour, perceived oral health, the Arabic version of the OHVS (A-OHVS), dental neglect scale, oral health-related quality of life, oral health literacy, simplified oral hygiene index (OHI-S), and decayed, missing, and filled teeth index (DMFT) were collected. Psychometric properties were tested using content validity, construct validity, discriminating validity, internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and floor as well as ceiling effects were examined. The Arabic OHVS was successfully and smoothly developed. It showed an acceptable level of equivalence to the original version, The A-OHVS presented an overall Cronbach's Alpha of 0.74 and the average score was 40.02, ranging between 26 and 54. All hypotheses predefined to test construct validity were confirmed. The bivariate correlation between A-OHVS and other health indicators shows a significant positive correlation between A-OHVS and oral health literacy (p = 0.000). On the other hand, statistically significant negative correlations were observed between A-OHVS and dental neglect and quality of life (p≤ 0.001) as well as DMFT and OHI-S (p ≤ 0.001). Floor or ceiling effects were not observed. The A-OHVS was shown to be a valid and reliable tool for assessing oral health values in the Arabic-speaking population.

Psychometric evaluation of the translated arabic version of the geriatrics health behavior questionnaire (GHBQ) for geriatric nurses: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe Geriatrics Health Behavior Questionnaire (GHBQ) is essential for assessing health-related behaviors among older adults populations. This study focuses on the translation, cultural adaptation, and psychometric evaluation of the Arabic version of the GHBQ to ensure its relevance and accuracy for Arabic-speaking older adults individuals.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted at the Cairo University Educational Hospital’s outpatient clinic. The GHBQ was translated and culturally adapted through a systematic process, including initial translation, back-translation, expert review, and pilot testing. The psychometric properties of the Arabic-translated GHBQ were evaluated using a sample of 200 older adults Arabic-speaking participants. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha (α) and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). Validity was evaluated through Content Validity Index (CVI), Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA).ResultsThe Arabic GHBQ demonstrated excellent reliability with Cronbach’s alpha values ranging from 0.74 to 0.87 across subscales and ICC values confirming reproducibility (ICC = 0.82). The CVI indicated strong content validity (average CVI = 0.91). EFA revealed a five-factor structure, explaining 72% of the variance, with all factor loadings exceeding 0.60. CFA supported the questionnaire’s structure with fit indices meeting recommended criteria: χ²/df = 2.05, NFI = 0.92, TLI = 0.94, GFI = 0.90, SRMR = 0.05, AIC = 140.35, and BIC = 160.22. Criterion validity was confirmed through significant correlations with established health behavior measures (r = 0.63, p < 0.001).ConclusionsThe culturally adapted Arabic version of the GHBQ is a reliable and valid tool for assessing health behaviors in the older adults population in Egypt. This instrument can aid healthcare providers in identifying and addressing health behaviors, ultimately improving the well-being of this demographic. Future research should focus on expanding the sample and comparing the GHBQ with other similar tools used in Arabic-speaking populations.

Psychometric properties of the ultra-brief self-report Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4) to assess anxiety and depression in Arabic-speaking adults

BackgroundAnxiety and depression are psychiatric disorders that often coexist and share some features. Developing a simple and cost-effective tool to assess anxiety and depression in the Arabic-speaking population, predominantly residing in low- and middle-income nations where research can be arduous, would be immensely beneficial. The study aimed to translate the four-item composite Patient Health Questionnaire – 4 (PHQ-4) into Arabic and evaluate its psychometric properties, including internal reliability, sex invariance, composite reliability, and correlation with measures of psychological distress.Methods587 Arabic-speaking adults were recruited between February and March 2023. An anonymous self-administered Google Forms link was distributed via social media networks. We utilized the FACTOR software to explore the factor structure of the Arabic PHQ-4.ResultsConfirmatory factor analysis (CFA) indicated that fit of the two-factor model of the PHQ-4 scores was modest (χ2/df = .13/1 = .13, RMSEA = .001, SRMR = .002, CFI = 1.005, TLI = 1.000). Internal reliability was excellent (McDonald’s omega = .86; Cronbach’s alpha = .86). Indices suggested that configural, metric, and scalar invariance were supported across sex. No significant difference was found between males and females in terms of the PHQ-4 total scores, PHQ-4 anxiety scores, and PHQ-4 depression scores. The total score of the PHQ-4 and its depression and anxiety scores were significantly and moderately-to-strongly associated with lower wellbeing and higher Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS) total and subscales scores.ConclusionThe PHQ-4 proves to be a reliable, valid, and cost-effective tool for assessing symptoms related to depression and anxiety. To evaluate the practical effectiveness of the Arabic PHQ-4 and to further enhance the data on its construct validity, future studies should assess the measure in diverse contexts and among specific populations.

Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Arabic convergence insufficiency symptom survey (Arab-CISS) in Saudi Arabia

Background: Convergence insufficiency (CI) is a common binocular vision disorder characterized by difficulty maintaining close visual focus. The Convergence Insufficiency Symptom Survey (CISS) is widely used to assess the presence and severity of CI symptoms, yet its applicability across different linguistic and cultural groups requires validation. This study aimed to translate, validate, and culturally adapt the CISS for Arabic-speaking populations, focusing on a sample from Saudi Arabia. Methods: Following established guidelines for questionnaire adaptation, the CISS was translated into Arabic and back-translated to ensure accuracy. The Arab-CISS underwent rigorous validation processes, including expert review and pre-testing. A sample of 104 participants from Qassim University, aged 18–40 years, was recruited with a Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) of 0.1 (20/25) or better in both eyes. Internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha, and test–retest reliability was assessed through the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). Results: The Arab-CISS demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.88) and test–retest reliability (ICC = 0.93, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.69–0.97). The Bland–Altman analysis supported these findings, showing minimal mean difference between test and retest scores (−0.1 ± 1.51), indicating stable and consistent responses over time without significant bias. Conclusion: The Arab-CISS is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing CI symptoms among Arabic-speaking individuals. Its introduction is a significant step toward improving the diagnosis and management of CI in Arabic-speaking populations.

Psychometric Features of the Arabic Version of the Children's Communication Checklist (CCC2).

The Children's Communication Checklist-Second Edition (CCC-2) uniquely assesses overlooked communication elements such as pragmatics and context use, which are rarely addressed by conventional language assessments. This study focuses on the psychometric assessment of the CCC-2's Arabic version, tailored to evaluate communication challenges in Arabic-speaking children. This study aims to validate the Arabic version of CCC-2 by testing its reliability and validity specifically for three higher-order constructs: Specific Language Impairment (SLI), Social Communication Disorder (SCD), and Impaired Behaviour within the Arabic-speaking population. A total of 121 participants in Saudi Arabia, showcasing diverse age and gender distributions, participated in the validation process. The study employed a Reflective-Reflective Higher-Order Construct (R-R HOC) model using partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to ensure content validity and cross-cultural adaptation of the translated items. Metrics such as Cronbach's alpha for reliability and Average Variance Extracted (AVE) for convergent validity were specifically examined. The study confirmed the reliability and validity of the Arabic CCC-2, demonstrating robust psychometric properties, with Cronbach's alpha and AVE scores indicating satisfactory reliability and convergent validity across constructs. Structural model evaluation further supported the strong interrelations among the constructs of SLI, SCD, and Impaired Behaviour. The results substantiate the Arabic CCC-2 as a reliable and valid tool for assessing communication challenges in Arabic-speaking children, particularly for diagnosing SLI, SCD, and Impaired Behaviour. The validated Arabic CCC-2 has significant potential for application in clinical and educational settings and suggests directions for future research to explore its utility further in diverse clinical populations.

The diagnostic accuracy of the Arabic version of the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire for screening for pediatric sleep-related breathing disorders in Saudi children.

Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) is a valid, reliable tool for screening for sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBDs) translated into several languages since 2000. The diagnostic accuracy of an Arabic version of the PSQ has never been tested. Our aim was to translate the original version of PSQ into Arabic (Arabic-PSQ), validate it as a reliable screening tool, and compare it to the gold standard diagnostic method for SRBDs. This was a prospective longitudinal study of 54 children (2-14 years) who were to undergo polysomnography (PSG). SRBD was assessed by administering the Arabic version of PSQ to the parents of these children. The validity and reliability of the Arabic-PSQ were assessed. Data were analyzed using Stata 16. Correlation between with polysomnographic indices and PSQ scores, as well as measurement of the diagnostic accuracy were determined. Receiver operating characteristic analysis between the mean PSQ scores and binary PSG results was done and the area under curve (AUC) value was calculated. Thirty-four (63%) children were diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea by PSG (Apnea-Hypopnea Index [AHI] ≥1), 26 of whom were accurately identified with the Arabic-PSQ (76.5%). Arabic-PSQ showed comparable validity and reliability. Using a cutoff of 0.33, the score showed a significant correlation with AHI: Rs: 0.30 (P = 0.029). The sensitivity was 76.5%, the specificity was 50%, the positive predictive was 72.2%, the negative predictive value was 55.6%, the positive likelihood ratio was 1.63, and the negative likelihood ratio was 0.37. The Arabic-PSQ is a valid tool for the screening of Arabic-speaking populations for SRBD. It is valuable for directing the diagnostic approach in a timely and cost-effective manner.

Psychometric properties of the arabic translation of the Physical Appearance Comparison Scale-Revised (PACS-R) in adults

BackgroundPhysical comparison may be a factor in body dissatisfaction and related issues, like eating disorders and depression. The Physical Appearance Comparison Scale-Revised (PACS-R) is a scale developed to assess the frequency of physical comparison. Because there is no validated scale for body comparison in Arabic, this study aims to address this gap by validating the PACS-R in the Arabic language.MethodsThe PACS-R was translated to Arabic following a conventional forward-backward translation procedure, and was administered to a sample of 359 Lebanese adults along with The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, and the Rosenberg self-esteem scale (RSES) for convergent validity. The factor structure was studied by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and composite reliability was assessed using McDonald’s omega and Cronbach’s alpha.ResultsResults suggested a one-factor structure of the Arabic PACS-R, with good internal consistency (McDonald’s ω = 0.97 / Cronbach α = 0.97). Measurement invariance was established across sex groups, with no significant difference being reported between males and females in terms of PACS-R scores (15.42 ± 10.64 vs. 13.16 ± 11.88; t(357) = 1.84; p = .066). Finally, adequate convergent validity was tested and found to be adequate, with PACS-R scores found to be correlated negatively with self-esteem and positively with psychological distress.ConclusionThe present findings preliminarily establish the Arabic PACS-R as an effective instrument for researchers and practitioners aiming to explore the physical comparison among Arabic-speaking populations, thus contributing to research and clinical work in the Arabic community.

Cross-cultural adaptation, validation and psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire in office working population from Saudi Arabia

BackgroundOffice-workers who suffer from musculoskeletal pain/disability may experience reduced productivity and absenteeism from work. The Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) is a valid, simple screening tool for the history and presence of self-perceived musculoskeletal symptoms in both general public and occupational settings. ObjectiveTo translate and culturally adapt the NMQ into Arabic language and examine its psychometric properties. MethodsThe published guidelines were followed to translate and adapt the NMQ into Arabic using a forward-backward process. Construct validity involved comparing NMQ responses with disability-related musculoskeletal questionnaires in different body regions, including the Neck Disability Index (NDI), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Quick-Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (Quick-DASH), and Reduced Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (ArWOMAC). The reliability was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha for internal consistency and prevalence-adjusted bias-adjusted kappa (PABAK) for test–retest reliability. ResultsThe Arabic NMQ (Ar-NMQ) revealed excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.85). For the test-retest reliability, the PABAK coefficient ranged between 0.50 and 1. The Ar-NMQ demonstrated strong construct validity. Participants reporting neck pain showed significantly elevated disability scores on the NDI (p < 0.05), while those with back pain exhibited higher ODI scores (p < 0.05). Moreover, individuals reporting shoulder, elbow, and wrist pain and disability displayed elevated Quick-DASH scores (p < 0.05). Similarly, participants reporting hip/thighs, knees, and ankle/feet pain/disability demonstrated significantly higher disability in ArWOMAC (p < 0.05). ConclusionThe NMQ was successfully translated and adapted into Arabic language, providing a reliable and valid instrument for assessing pain in specific body regions in the Arabic-speaking population.

Psychometric properties of an Arabic translation of the resilience scale for older adults

Objectives A significant gap currently exists in the availability of reliable and scientifically rigorous measures for evaluating resilience among older Arabic-speaking populations. The primary objective of this study was to assess the psychometric properties of an Arabic adaptation of the 15-item Resilience Scale of Older Adults (RSOA) in a sample of Arabic-speaking Egyptian older adults. Method Using a cross-sectional design and a convenience sample of 539 Egyptian older adults, with 60.7% aged between 65 and 75 years (50.3% females), participants completed an online Google form-based anonymous questionnaire, including sociodemographic information, the RSOA, and the 10-item CD-RISC. To ensure accurate translation, the forward-backward translation method was employed. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and gender invariance in the RSOA were analyzed. McDonald’s ω and Cronbach’s α were calculated to assess internal consistency. Results The results demonstrate that the Arabic RSOA and its subscales exhibit high internal consistency, with McDonald’s ω and Cronbach’s α values ranging from 0.83 to 0.93. CFA analysis revealed that the four-factor model fit of RSOA was acceptable. Measurement invariance was supported across genders. Furthermore, both genders exhibited no significant differences in all four RSOA dimensions. Convergent validity was supported by demonstrating that the four RSOA sub-scores and total scores correlated positively and significantly with the 10-item CD-RISC. Conclusion While further cross-cultural validation involving other Arab countries and communities is necessary, this study suggests that the Arabic RSOA may be used to measure resilience among broader Arabic-speaking older adults in clinical and research contexts.

Validation of an Arabic version of the short form of the health literacy in dentistry scale: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe Arabic version of the short form of the Health Literacy in Dentistry scale (HeLD) had not yet been developed in previously published studies. This study aims to test the reliability and validity of an Arabic version of the short form of the HeLD questionnaire.MethodsThe short version of HeLD was translated into Arabic and the psychometric properties were evaluated in a sample of 1,889 female students in their first year of secondary school. Test–retest reliability was assessed using the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC), and internal consistency reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha. Content validity was investigated by creating a correlation matrix between the individual items of the HeLD-14, and criterion validity was determined using Pearson’s correlation between the HeLD-14 score and an overall oral health rating. Sensitivity analysis was assessed by testing the associations of the HeLD-14 score with oral health-related behaviours and residential area.ResultsThe Arabic version of HeLD-14 (A-HeLD-14) had acceptable ICC (0.54) and excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.92). The correlations between the items of the A-HeLD-14 varied from 0.3 to 0.9. The A-HeLD-14 showed a statistically significant correlation with the overall oral health rating (r = 0.37, p < 0.001). The median A-HeLD-14 score was significantly higher in participants who brushed their teeth frequently (51.31), visited the dentist regularly (52.00), consumed fresh fruit frequently (51) and consumed soda or energy drinks infrequently (51.00) than participants who brushed their teeth infrequently (41.50), visited the dentist irregularly (49.00), consumed fresh fruit infrequently (47) and consumed soda or energy drinks frequently (48.00).ConclusionThe A-HeLD-14 instrument demonstrates sufficient validity, reliability, and sensitivity for measuring oral health literacy among the Arabic-speaking population.

Examining the reliability and validity of the arabic version of the Glasgow Sleep Effort Scale (GSES).

Sleep effort refers to the cognitive and behavioral exertion involved in initiating and maintaining sleep. High sleep effort is increasingly recognized as perpetuating insomnia and poor sleep quality. Validated sleep effort scales enable the quantification of this construct in clinical and research settings. However, no Arabic version has been available. This study translated and validated the Glasgow Sleep Effort Scale (GSES) into Arabic to assess sleep effort in Arabic-speaking populations. The GSES was translated into Arabic using the forward-backward translation approach. This involved an initial Arabic translation from the source followed by a back translation into English to ensure accuracy. A total of 369 participants were recruited to assess the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the GSES, specifically its reliability and validity. The reliability analysis included Cronbach's α, McDonald's ω, and test-retest reliability. Validity was examined using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to evaluate the unidimensionality of the scale and assess model fit. Convergent validity was also assessed through correlation analysis with the Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 Scale (GAD-7). The Cronbach's α reliability coefficient and McDonald's ω for the scale were found to be 0.87 (95% CI: 0.85-0.89). The test-retest reliability was 0.95 (95% CI: 0.93 - 0.97) after two weeks. The one-factor model showed an acceptable fit, with a CFI of 0.96, a TLI of 0.94, and an SRMR of 0.04. Invariance analysis revealed that male and female participants conceptualized and responded to the GSES items similarly, without differences in factor loadings or scale characteristics between the sexes. The Arabic version of the GSES has good convergent validity, as shown by the significant correlation between the AIS and the GSES (r = 0.72, p < 0.001). Similarly, the GAD-7 score was significantly correlated with the GSES score (r = 0.77, p < 0.001). This is the first study in which the GSES was validated in Arabic. This allows the scale to reliably gauge sleep effort among Arabic speakers, providing new clinical and research opportunities to understand how maladaptive sleep effort may contribute to insomnia and suboptimal sleep in this demographic population.

Adapting the athlete sleep behavior questionnaire (ASBQ) for Arabic-speaking populations: Translation, reliability testing, and validation using classical theory and item response theory

Sleep is essential for athletes' physical performance as well as their general health, well-being, and quality of life. To assess athletes' sleep behaviors, the Athlete Sleep Behavior Questionnaire (ASBQ) was developed in the English language. However, a validated Arabic-version of the ASBQ is lacking. This study aimed to translate the ASBQ into Arabic (ASBQ-AR) and evaluate its reliability and validity among Arabic-speaking athletes.A total of 458 participants (254 athletes, 202 non-athletes) from four Arabic countries completed the ASBQ-AR and the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) questionnaires. The psychometric properties of the ASBQ-AR were examined using unidimensional reliability analysis, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), Item Response Theory (IRT), and convergent validity.The ASBQ-AR had acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.723, McDonald's ω = 0.725) and a factorial structure, confirming its construct validity. CFA demonstrated improved model fit indices after the removal of two potentially misfitting items (items 4 and 13); however, the model's fit to the data remains suboptimal. IRT results indicated that the majority of items demonstrated a good model fit, suggesting effective measurement of the intended construct without significant interference, except for ASBQ-AR 4. Additionally, ASBQ-AR 4 appears to present the highest level of difficulty for respondents. In terms of convergent validity, the mean ASBQ-AR global score was correlated with the mean ISI global score (r = 0.5, p < 0.0001).The ASBQ-AR is a reliable and valid tool for assessing maladaptive sleep practices among Arabic-speaking athletes. Additional refinements to the ASBQ-AR are warranted to optimize its psychometric properties.