The Validation of the Coping and Adaptation Processing Scale Based on the Roy Adaptation Model

Abstract

Background and Purpose: To establish the psychometric soundness for Coping and Adaptation Processing Scale (CAPS) using the Roy adaptation model as theoretical framework. Method: A descriptive, cross-sectional survey of a convenience sample of 199 nurses working in different acute health care facilities in California. The internal consistency of the multifactor CAPS questionnaire was explored using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Factors correlation was examined using Pearson product moment correlation. The factor structure was studied using confirmatory factor analyses. Results: In the confirmatory factor analysis, the indices of fitness highly supported these results. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for the total score was .81 and varied between .31 and .78 in the 5 domains. A positive and significant correlation emerged between CAPS factors and total scores (r = .91, p < .01) ranging from .17 to .81. CAPS showed acceptable validity and reliability for measuring the coping of nurses in acute setting. Future studies using the scale might lead to the improvement of the subscales measurement. Conclusion: The psychometric data suggests that CAPS is a highly suitable instrument to measure coping processes.