A More Understanding about AIDS: Design and Assessment of Validity and Reliability of Several New Scales

Abstract

Introduction: Given the high cost of AIDS, research on high-risk behaviors associated with AIDS is an essential requirement today. Therefore, the present study aimed to construct and standardize tests associated with AIDS-related risky behaviors. Methods: To assess the validity of the questionnaires, the experts’ viewpoints from different domains were qualitatively and quantitatively included. Additionally, to assess the reliability of the questionnaires, a sample of 31 subjects was selected and then examined on two separate occasions in a fortnight's time. Then, the validity and reliability of the instruments were assessed in a sample of 475 subjects. Results: The results of exploratory factor analysis showed that for AIDS health literacy and AIDS risk perception questionnaires two factors are extractable; while for the questionnaires of selfefficacy in controlling risk behavior and controlling risk behavior associated with AIDS one factor is extractable. Finally, 14 items were approved for each of the AIDS health literacy and self-efficacy in controlling risk behavior questionnaires; while 13 items were approved for each of the controlling risk behavior associated with AIDS and AIDS risk perception questionnaires. Each of the four questionnaires had a good internal consistency (Cronbach's Alpha > 0.70). Interclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) amounts related to the test-retest reliability were greater than 0.80, which indicates the reliability of the instruments. Conclusion: According to the results of the present study, it was concluded that all four AIDSrelated questionnaires enjoyed acceptable validity and reliability.