Development and Validation of the Chinese Version of The Masturbation Beliefs Scale

Abstract

Abstract Background Negative experiences of and beliefs regarding masturbation frequently affect people's psychological well-being and health behaviors, but there is currently no specific assessment tool to measure Chinese people's beliefs about masturbation. Aim The goal of the present study was to develop a brief scale (the Masturbation Beliefs Scale, BMS) for Chinese university students. Methods The BMS was developed and administered online to 2 different samples, with a total sample of 3,231 respondents (1,527 males and 1,704 females). The items were formulated based on previous qualitative research data. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed. Outcomes The BMS scale contains 3 dimensions with good internal consistency and construct validity, which can well measure Chinese people's belief about masturbation. Results The results of the two samples showed that the 17-item culturally based BMS demonstrated good internal consistency and construct validity. Three factors capturing university students’ beliefs regarding masturbation emerged. The 3 factors were labeled beliefs about male masturbation (BAMM), beliefs about female masturbation (BAFM), and negative affect toward masturbation (NATM). The participants’ culturally based masturbation beliefs were negatively related to independent self-construal and sexual compulsivity. In addition, their culturally based masturbation beliefs consistently predicted their likelihood of premarital sexual behavior. Clinical Translation Clinicians and researchers could utilize this culturally sensitive instrument to evaluate individuals’ experiences of masturbation, which could help clinicians deliver efficacious sex therapy and sexual education to individuals who have misconceptions or phobias regarding masturbation. Strengths and limitations The scale is an innovative tool that measures culturally relevant beliefs regarding masturbation among Chinese students. A limitation of this study is that several constructs were measured by single questions. This may attenuate the estimated correlation since single items are less reliable than multiple-item scales. Conclusion The present research demonstrates that a culturally sensitive scale is necessary to understand the culturally based values that influence university students’ beliefs regarding masturbation and sexual behavior.