Psychometric examination of the Malay version of the Pain Catastrophising Scale in a Malaysian chronic pain sample

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the Malay version of the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS-M). Methods: The original PCS was translated into Malay using the back-translation method and was administered to 132 outpatients with non-malignant chronic pain. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis revealed that a 10-item single-factor model had a better fit profile compared to 8 competing models as documented in previous studies. In terms of internal consistency, Cronbach’s α value for the PCS-M was 0.93. In terms of predictive validity, the PCS-M explained 47%, 24%, and 22% of the variance in anxiety, depression, and kinesiophobia, respectively. Conclusion: Best presented as a unidimensional construct, the 10-item PCS-M demonstrated excellent reliability estimate and initial evidence for predictive validity in a Malaysian chronic pain sample. The 10-item PCS-M is a reliable and valid tool to be used in chronic pain management in the Malaysian context.