Psychometric properties of an Italian translation of the Functionality Appreciation Scale (FAS). (September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cerea, Silvia; Todd, Jennifer; Ghisi, Marta; Mancin, Paolo; Swami, Viren
• Is Part Of: Body image. Volume 38(2021)
• Page Start: 210
• Page End: 218
• Publication Date: 2021-09
• Subjects: Functionality appreciation -- Positive body image -- Factor structure -- Psychometrics -- Italy; Body image -- Periodicals; Body image -- Research -- Periodicals; Body Image -- Periodicals; 306.4613
• DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2021.04.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1740-1445

Abstract

Highlights: The Italian FAS showed a unidimensional structure and invariance across sex. FAS scores were stable over a 3-week period and internally consistent. Italian FAS is a valid and reliable measure for use in Italian-speaking populations. Abstract: The Functionality Appreciation Scale (FAS; Alleva et al., 2017 ) is a widely used instrument for the measurement of individual's appreciation of their body for what it can do and is capable of doing (i.e., functionality appreciation ). Here, we examined the psychometric properties of a novel Italian translation of the FAS. A sample of 950 Italian adults completed the FAS, as well as previously validated measures of body image (body appreciation, body esteem, body surveillance), disordered eating symptoms, and psychological well-being (self-esteem, general distress). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses supported a 1-dimensional model of FAS scores, with all 7 items retained. Scores achieved scalar invariance across gender, and the gender difference in latent FAS scores was not significant. FAS scores were found to have adequate internal consistency, test-retest reliability up to three weeks, and convergent and criterion-related validity through significant correlations with all additional constructs. However, evidence of incremental validity was weak, and likely reflected high nomological and conceptual similarity between functionality and body appreciation in this national context. Overall, these results provide strong evidence that scores on the Italian FAS are psychometrically valid, which may aid future development of interventions to promote more positive body image in Italian-speaking samples.