Development and psychometric validation of substance abuse prevention Questionnaire based on the multi-theory model: construct validity and reliability

Abstract

Background The present study determined the validity and reliability of the substance abuse prevention questionnaire based on the multi-theory model among the people of Yazd, central Iran. Methods This cross-sectional descriptive-analytical psychometric research was conducted on 391 Akramiyeh, Yazd residents using a systematic sampling method in 2021. First, a questionnaire was prepared based on the results of a qualitative study and the constructs of a multi-theory model, and its face validity was confirmed. Having collected the data, the validity and reliability of the questionnaire were determined with SPSS using factor analysis, internal consistency, convergent validity, and Cronbach's α. Results The factor loading of all items was more than 0.5 and was in the desired range. The results obtained from confirmatory factor analysis based on parameter estimation showed that in all seven constructs of the questionnaire, the relevant items had a significant relationship with each latent variable (P < 0.001). All factor loadings were higher than 0.4 and Cronbach's α coefficient was calculated as 0.940 for the entire questionnaire. The highest factor loading (27%) was related to the construct of change in the social environment. Regarding substance abuse prevention behavior, the construct of participatory dialogue played a role by 9.58%, the constructs of emotional transformation by 7.98%, change in the physical environment by 5.95%, behavioral confidence by 3.3%, and practicing for change by 3.16%. Conclusion The substance abuse prevention questionnaire based on the multi-theory model has acceptable validity and reliability and can be effective in predicting factors and designing interventions aimed at preventing substance abuse among young people.