Weighing perceptions: Psychometric properties of the obesity preconception and weight-related problem scales for Mexican preadolescents

Childhood obesity is a global public health issue, for which Mexico reports exceptionally high rates. This study aimed to develop and provide psychometric evidence for two scales: one that assesses preconceptions about obesity and another that evaluates, weight-related problems in Mexican preadolescents. A non-probabilistic sample of 247 overweight or obese fifth and sixth-grade primary school students from Mexico City was used (X̅ =10.40, SD=0.65 years of age, X̅ =23.61, SD=3.11 BMI). After exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, both scales demonstrated evidence of structural validity. The scales and subscales achieved moderate internal consistency and concurrent validity by being significantly associated with health-related quality of life. The results highlight the importance of addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of childhood overweight and obesity. The weight-related problem and the attitudes and preconceptions towards obesity scales are valuable tools for future research and intervention programs designed to improve the well-being of overweight or obese children in Mexico.