Development and Validation of the Verbal Commentary on Physical Appearance Scale: Considering both Positive and Negative Commentary

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2006

Keywords

Appearance commentary, Body image dissatisfaction, Self-esteem, Measurement

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bodyim.2006.10.001

Abstract

Two studies describe the development and validation of the Verbal Commentary on Physical Appearance Scale (VCOPAS). In Study 1, 320 undergraduate female students completed the scale and factor analyses were conducted. Study 2 included 246 undergraduate female students and a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) replicated the initial factor structure. The final VCOPAS consists of 21 items and contains three subscales (Negative Weight and Shape, Positive Weight and Shape, and Positive General Appearance). The total scale and subscales demonstrated good internal consistency and test–retest reliability (all >.70). Significant correlations were found between VCOPAS subscales and measures of physical appearance-related feedback, body image disturbance, and self-esteem. Regression analyses indicated the utility of the Negative Weight and Shape, Positive Weight and Shape, and Positive General Appearance subscales in explaining significant variance associated with body image disturbance and self-esteem. The VCOPAS is likely to be useful in future research examining the role of appearance-related commentary in the development and maintenance of body image dissatisfaction and eating disturbance.

Was this content written or created while at USF?

Yes

Citation / Publisher Attribution

Body Image, v. 3, issue 4, p. 335-344

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