Boosting multidimensional assessment of body image: Psychometric analysis of the Body Responsiveness Questionnaire in the Portuguese population

Abstract

Abstract Body responsiveness refers to the tendency to be attuned to the body’s needs and use interoceptive information to guide behavior. Despite its potential beneficial effect on the development of positive body image, this construct is currently understudied. To boost research in this area, we examined the factor structure, gender invariance, and psychometric properties of a Portuguese translation of the Body Responsiveness Questionnaire (BRQ). A total of 650 men and women (aged 18–80 years) completed the Portuguese BRQ. To assess its convergent validity, participants also completed measures of body appreciation, emotion regulation, depression symptoms, and psychological quality of life. Exploratory factor analysis indicated a two-factor structure of the BRQ, which was upheld using confirmatory factor analysis: “Importance of Interoceptive Awareness” (ω = .85-.87) and “Perceived Connection” between body and mind (ω = .71-.74). BRQ scores had partial scalar invariance across gender, and no significant gender differences. Convergent validity was supported, as well as known-groups validity, with participants with overweight/obesity assigning higher importance of body signals to guide behavior than those with normal weight. The Portuguese version of the BRQ is a psychometrically sound measure of body responsiveness and it may contribute to a comprehensive assessment of positive body image to guide intervention.