Validation of the questionnaire "Stage of Change in Behavior of Scholars in Eating Habits and Physical Activity" (CEHAF)

Abstract

To validate the questionnaire "Stage of Change in Behavior of Scholars in Eating Habits and Physical Activity" (CEHAF). It is based on the Transtheoretical Model, and it intends to be a useful tool for developing strategies against childhood obesity. It measures knowledge, attitudes, and habits towards nutrition and physical activity. Observational, crosssectional, randomized, and multi-center study in a sample of 1671 Mexican school-age children, from 8 to 12 years old, both genders. The CEHAF questionnaire is self-administered and consists of 35 questions, including 18 multiple choices, on habits and attitudes towards alimentation and physical activity. Reliability analysis through Cronbach's alpha resulted in an alpha coefficient of 0.845. The exploratory factor analysis revealed three theoretically-congruent factors. The final version of the CEHAF questionnaire was conformed of 14 items. The psychometric characteristics of the CEHAF questionnaire indicate that it is a valid and reliable tool for assessing the stage of change in schoolage population.