Design of psychosocial factors questionnaires: A systematic measurement approach

BackgroundEvaluation of psychosocial factors requires instruments that measuredynamic complexities. This study explains the design of a set of questionnaires toevaluate work and non-work psychosocial risk factors for stress-related illnesses.MethodsThe measurement model was based on a review of literature. Content validi-ty was performed by experts and cognitive interviews. Pilot testing was carried outwith a convenience sample of 132 workers. Cronbach’s alpha evaluated internal con-sistency and concurrent validity was estimated by Spearman correlation coefficients.ResultsThree questionnaires were constructed to evaluate exposure to work and non-work risk factors. Content validity improved the questionnaires coherence with themeasurement model. Internal consistency was adequate (a¼0.85–0.95). Concurrentvalidity resulted in moderate correlations of psychosocial factors with stresssymptoms.ConclusionsQuestionnaires’ content reflected a wide spectrum of psychosocialfactors sources. Cognitive interviews improved understanding of questions anddimensions. The structure of the measurement model was confirmed.