The Factor Structure and Psychometric Properties of the Weight Based Rejection Sensitivity Scale

Weight-based rejection sensitivity is a significant psychological factor in individuals with overweight and obesity, which can have considerable negative impacts on their mental and physical health. this study aimed to examine the factor structure and psychometric properties of the Persian version of the Weight-Based Rejection Sensitivity Scale (W-RS) in overweight and obese individuals.

Methods and Materials:

 The research followed a descriptive validation design. The study population included overweight and obese individuals, from which 372 participants with a body mass index over 25 were selected using convenience sampling. Participants completed the Weight-Based Rejection Sensitivity questionnaire. The scale's factor structure was assessed through exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis, while test-retest reliability, internal consistency, and convergent validity were also evaluated. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26 and AMOS version 24 softwares.

The exploratory factor analysis results indicated that the scale consists of two factors: "Interpersonal Sensitivity" and "Situational Sensitivity." The confirmatory factor analysis supported the two-factor structure identified. The test-retest reliability coefficients for the subscales and the overall scale ranged from 0.85 to 0.91 Additionally, Cronbach's alpha coefficients were between 0.92 and 0.95, indicating strong internal consistency. A composite reliability above 0.7 and an average variance extracted above 0.5 further confirmed the scale's convergent validity.

The confirmatory factor analysis fit indices indicated that the two-factor model of the Weight-Based Rejection Sensitivity Scale showed a good fit with the data. Thus, the scale is a valid and reliable tool for assessing anxious expectations of rejection in overweight and obese individuals