Construct validation of the scale of attitudes toward alcohol, alcoholism and individuals with alcohol use disorders

Abstract

Background: The attitudes toward issues related to alcohol and alcoholism have been noted as important predictors of the quantity and quality of care provided to individuals who have problems related to alcohol use. The Scale of Attitudes toward Alcohol, Alcoholism and Alcoholics (EAFAAA) (Escala de Atitudes Frente ao Álcool, ao Alcoolismo e à pessoa com transtornos relacionados ao uso do álcool – EAFAAA) has been widely used among students in health-related fields. However, the psychometric properties of this instrument have not been tested among professionals. Objective: The goal of this study was to determine the construct validity of the EAFAAA for use among health professionals. Methods: A preliminary version of the EAFAAA was distributed to a sample of health care professionals (n = 1,025). For the construct validation of the scale, the data were subjected to a factorial analysis, and the internal consistency was examined; the cutoff score of the instrument was determined using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results: The exploratory factor analysis and the refinement of the EAFAAA items resulted in a final version consisting of 50 items divided into four factors: (1) Work and interpersonal relationships with patients with alcohol use disorders, (2) The individual with an alcohol use disorder, (3) Etiology of alcoholism and (4) Alcoholic beverages and their use. The internal consistency of the scale was considered adequate (Cronbach’s α > 0.80), and the instrument cutoff score was set at 3.15. Discussion: The results suggest that the instrument is valid for identifying attitudes towards alcohol, alcoholism and individuals with alcohol use disorders among health professionals.