The Adult Picky Eating Questionnaire: Turkish validity and reliability study

Abstract

Objective: Picky eating, defined as food avoidance/rejection behavior, is one of the problematic eating behaviors observed in children and adults. Picky eaters, due to their negative attitudes towards food, do not get enough energy and nutrients, which leads to various health problems. The Adult Picky Eating Questionnaire (APEQ) is a measurement tool consisting of 16 items and 4 sub-dimensions developed to evaluate picky eating behaviors in adults. This study aimed to adapt the APEQ to Turkish and conduct validity and reliability studies in the Turkish population. Method: In this methodological type of research, 240 healthy adults aged between 19 and 65 years living in Turkey were included. The research was conducted online between July 2020 and February 2021 using a questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed using the R-Project program and Lavaan packages. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and reliability analysis were performed to test the original scale items. Results: In this study, Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient of the scale was 0.751. Accordingly, this scale was found to be reliable. The Cronbach’s Alpha reliability coefficients of the sub-dimensions of the scale varied between 0.370-0.616. The fit indices provided by the confirmatory factor analysis were also within the acceptable range. Accordingly, it was determined that the Turkish-adapted APEQ was statistically valid. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that APEQ is a valid and reliable measurement tool suitable for Turkish culture. It is thought that the APEQ, determined to be a valid and reliable measurement tool for the Turkish population, maybe a reference scale that can be used in studies to determine picky eating behaviors in adults, determine causes, and prevent negative health consequences.