Self-confidence for the initial management of health issues in schools: construction and validation of a visual analogue scale

Abstract

Abstract Objective: To describe the construction and validation of a visual analogue scale of teachers' self-confidence with regard to the initial management of health issues in schools. Method: A methodological study was developed based on theoretical (items' construction and content validation), empirical (semantic analysis and pilot test), and analytical procedures (internal consistency analysis). The project was approved by a research ethics committee. Results: The scale consisted of 12 items regarding the main health issues in schools, presented content validity index of 100% in the second round, was understood by the target audience, and presented high internal consistency among items (Cronbach's alpha of 0.89). Conclusion and implications for practice: An easy-to-use tool that proved to be relevant to meet the dimension of teachers' self-confidence in the initial management of health issues in schools. The scale may contribute to the planning of systematized and effective educational strategies among teachers.