Adaptation of the athletic identity measurement scale (AIMS-Plus) for the Portuguese population

Abstract

Athletic Identity may be defi ned as being the degree of importance, strength and exclusivity that is attached to the athlete's role which is maintained by him/herself and his/her context (Cieslak, 2004). In this study, using a confi rmatory factor analysis, the measure of Athletic Identity (AIMS-plus) was examined. A total of 650 athletes completed the AIMS-plus. The psychometric features of the original scale were replicated to the Portuguese population. Validity and reliability were positive. AIMS-plus and AIMS were high correlated suggesting that both scales derive from similar athletic identity concepts. These results suggest that AIMS-plus seems to be an acceptable psychometric instrument and a good measure to be explored in research and intervention for athletic identity. It's also recommended further studies of the psychometric characteristics.