The development and assessment of a scale to measure the experience of an anorexic voice in anorexia nervosa.
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Abstract |
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The anorexic voice (AV) is defined as a critical internal dialogue, which has been implicated in the development and maintenance of anorexia nervosa (AN). Systematic research to explore this further requires a valid and reliable measurement tool. This study aimed to develop and assess the validity of the Experience of an Anorexic VoicE Questionnaire (EAVE-Q). EAVE-Q items were developed and checked for face and content validity through cognitive interviews with seven individuals diagnosed with AN. Participants with a diagnosis of AN (N = 148) completed the EAVE-Q, sociodemographic questions and measures of mood and quality of life to assess internal consistency and construct validity. Forty-nine participants completed the EAVE-Q twice more to assess test-retest reliability. The EAVE-Q had good face and content validity and good acceptability. Principal axis factoring resulted in an 18-item scale organized into five domains with high internal consistency (α = 0.70 to α = 0.85). Domains correlated significantly with eating disorder symptoms, psychological distress, and quality of life. The EAVE-Q did not discriminate between participants on the basis of body mass index. Test-retest reliability was moderate. Although the factor structure of the EAVE-Q requires replication in other AN samples, the EAVE-Q is the first measure of a critical internal dialogue in AN. It is hoped that it will aid future research to increase understanding of AN and the continued development of person-centred treatments. |
Year of Publication |
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2020
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Journal |
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Clinical psychology & psychotherapy
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Volume |
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27
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Issue |
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6
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Number of Pages |
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940-954
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ISSN Number |
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1063-3995
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URL |
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https://doi.org/10.1002/cpp.2481
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DOI |
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10.1002/cpp.2481
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Short Title |
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Clin Psychol Psychother
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