The Perceived Health Competence Scale: Psychometric properties in a Spanish sample

The psychometric properties of the Perceived Health Competence Scale (PHCS: Smith, Wallston, & Smith, 1995) was studied using two Spanish samples (healthy people: n = 252 and chronic pain patients: n = 56). Findings support a unidimensional structure. Internal consistency was good (α = .79 in both samples) and also test-retest stability (r = 54 in the nursing students sample). PHCS was significantly related, in the theoretical sense, to the majority of variables analysed in this study to explore construct validity. PHCS was closely related to Self-Efficacy but not to Internal Locus of Control (no significant relationship was obtained). This scale shows good psychometric properties and, hence, can be considered a useful instrument for assessing control perception in an intermediate area such as health. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved) (Source: journal abstract)