Reproductive Autonomy Scale: Turkish Validity and Reliability Study

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to determine the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the Reproductive Autonomy Scale. Methods: A methodological study was conducted with 320 women who sought treatment in a Family Health Center between November 5, 2022, and February 1, 2023. Data were collected through the Personal Information Form and the Turkish version of the Reproductive Autonomy Scale. The content validity index (CVI-Lawshe technique) was used to analyze the agreement in expert opinions. While Pearson correlation analysis was used for the test-retest analysis of the scale and its sub-scales, Cronbach's alpha coefficient was utilized to analyze the internal consistency of the scale and its sub-scales. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were utilized to test the scale's construct validity. These factor analyses were conducted separately in two samples divided randomly. Results: The adequacy of the sample size was calculated using the Kaiser-Maier Oklin (KMO) value, which was found to be 0.704. The significance value of Bartlett's Test of Sphericity (χ91 196.033. p < .001) was below 0.05, indicating that a factor analysis may be useful with the data. A three-factor structure explaining %77.84 of the variance and having an eigenvalue above one was obtained due to the varimax axis rotation. All the items were included in the factors in the original scale, and a structure with factor loadings ranging between 0.589 and 0.917 emerged. The model was found to fit the data for the overall scale. Cronbach's alpha internal consistency coefficients of the scale were calculated as 0.903, 0.891, 0.928, and 0.918 for the total score, decision-making, freedom from coercion, and communication sub-scales, respectively. Conclusion: The Reproductive Autonomy Scale was found to be a valid and reliable measurement tool for the Turkish population.