Fear of COVID-19 Scale: Adaptation and psychometric properties in Peruvian population

Abstract

Context and objective: Current context caused by COVID-19 has changed social and day-to-day life worldwide. Mental health is no exception. The objective of this study was to adapt and analyze the psychometric properties of the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) in a sample of Peruvian professionals. Material and methods. The sample was composed of 169 participants of a longitudinal study about burnout during the pandemic in Peru. Translation-back translation method was performed (from English to Spanish). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted. Additionally, reliability analyses (Cronbach’s Alpha, McDonald’s Omega and Test-retest) and correlations with other variables were carried out. Results: Results confirm the one-dimensional nature of the instrument (CFA) with excellent indicators of goodness of fit (CFI =.996; TLI =.99; RMSEA =.06; SRMR =.04) and present good levels of reliability (α =.79; ω =.81; ICC =.75). Furthermore, evidence for external validity was found with the Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale and Perceived Stress Scale. The FCV-19S score presents previously unknown correlations with fear of infection of relatives, fear of infection in public places and self-reported perceived health. The score differs by gender, but further examination with larger samples are needed. Main conclusions: The Peruvian version of the FCV-19S shows solid psychometric properties. Its use is attractive for the study of mental health during the pandemic, and the design and focalization of initiatives in vulnerable groups and spaces