Translation and Cross-Cultural Validation of Korean Version of the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire

Abstract

Given the increase in cross-cultural studies, there is a need for adequately translated and validated study instruments. Using instruments translated into participants’ native language can lower barriers to study participation and increase study validity. The purpose of this study was to describe the translation and validation processes of the Korean version (MDQ-K) of the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MDQ). The MDQ was translated into Korean through a forward-and-backward translation process, followed by expert review and pilot testing among 100 bilingual Korean students. The equivalence of MDQ-K to MDQ was tested through bivariate Pearson’s correlations and paired t tests. The psychometric properties of the MDQ-K were evaluated through internal consistency and construct validity (confirmatory factor analysis). The reliability of the questionnaire was good (Cronbach’s α = .96). The results of confirmatory factor analysis revealed an acceptable model fit to the data. Overall, the MDQ-K demonstrated acceptable psychometric properties, although paired t tests found significant differences ( p < .05) between the MDQ and MDQ-K in the means of three items: “restlessness” (Item 22), “bursts of energy and activity” (Item 40), and “blind spots and fuzzy vision” (Item 46). Possible explanations for these discrepancies include the participants’ varying English proficiency levels, issues with understanding medical terminology, and absence of words with the same meanings in different languages. We also discussed possible deletion of questionnaire items through further factor analysis.