The Functionality Appreciation Scale (FAS): psychometric properties and results of the Dutch version in a community sample and a sample of women with eating disorders

Abstract

Abstract Background Body satisfaction in people with eating disorders (EDs) is negatively affected by their critical evaluation of aesthetic aspects. A focus on body functionality could create a more positive perspective. This study examines psychometric properties of the Dutch version of the Functionality Appreciation Scale (FAS) and differences in scores between women with and without EDs. Method Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were used to investigate the factor structure in data from a community sample of 669 women and an ED sample of 150 women. Reliability, test-retest scores and correlations with Body Cathexis Scale (BCS) and Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) were investigated. T-tests were used to evaluate differences between samples. Results EFA identified a one-dimensional factor structure, which was confirmed by CFA. Reliability was adequate and convergent and discriminant validity were supported through correlations with BCS and EDE-Q (subscale) scores. FAS-scores were significantly lower for women with EDs compared to women from a community sample. Conclusions Psychometric results of the Dutch version of the FAS are promising and validate its use for clinical and research purposes. The significant difference between FAS scores in the female ED sample and the female community sample indicates that female ED patients obviously have a lower body satisfaction concerning body functionality compared with healthy women. Further research with male ED participants as well as exploration of sensitivity to change are recommended.