- 1a
Cognitive and Behavioural Centre for Research and Intervention
(CINEICC), Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences , University
of Coimbra , Coimbra , Portugal.
Abstract
This
study developed and established the psychometric properties of the Body
Image Victimization Experiences Scale (BIVES). The BIVES
retrospectively assesses the frequency (Part A-frequency) and effect
(Part B-impact) of victimization experiences pertaining to body image,
perpetrated by peers and parents/caregivers in childhood and
adolescence. Distinct samples of Portuguese women were recruited in
2013-2014: two nonclinical samples of the general population (n =
1,177), aged 18-60 years, and a clinical sample of patients with Binge
Eating Disorder (BED; n = 73), aged 19-59 years. An exploratory factor
analysis was conducted in 632 participants. A confirmatory factor
analysis (CFA) and the scale's psychometric properties were tested in
545 participants. The ability of the BIVES to discriminate the clinical
from a nonclinical sample was examined. The scale presented two factors
indicating the sources of the victimization-peers and parents. CFA
results confirmed the scale's structure. The BIVES presented very good
internal consistency, construct and discriminant validity, good
test-retest reliability, and was associated with related constructs,
body image shame, and eating psychopathology. The scale adequately
discriminated between the clinical sample and a nonclinical sample. The
BIVES is a valid and reliable measure that allows for a comprehensive
assessment of body image-related victimization experiences.
KEYWORDS:
Body image; body image victimization; confirmatory factor analysis; eating psychopathology; psychometric properties