Psychometric validation of the Arabic online vigilance scale

The widespread adoption of smartphones and mobile internet technologies has resulted in a significant increase in constant online connectivity, termed online vigilance. Previous literature identifies online vigilance as a cognitive state encompassing continuous awareness of online interactions, which can influence psychological well-being. Despite its global relevance, culturally validated instruments for assessing online vigilance in Arabic-speaking contexts remain limited. This study aimed to translate and psychometrically validate the Arabic version of the Online Vigilance Scale (OVS) for Algerian university students. The primary research questions investigated the scale’s reliability, factor structure, and validity within this population. Hypotheses proposed the preservation of the original three-factor structure (salience, reactibility, and monitoring) and adequate psychometric properties. The study employed a confirmatory factor analysis with data collected from 513 Algerian university students (85.4% female). Results confirmed the hypothesized three-dimensional structure and demonstrated strong internal consistency, reliability, and construct validity. The translated scale accurately captures the cognitive and behavioral dimensions of online vigilance relevant to the Algerian context. Findings suggest the Arabic OVS is a valid and reliable measure suitable for future research and practical applications aimed at understanding and mitigating the psychological impacts of constant digital connectivity among university students. This validation contributes significantly to cross-cultural psychology and the development of culturally sensitive interventions for digital behavior management. • Arabic Online Vigilance Scale validated among Algerian students. • Original three-factor structure (salience, reactibility, monitoring) confirmed. • High reliability and validity demonstrated in the Algerian context. • Provides culturally relevant measure for digital behaviour research. • Supports targeted interventions to manage digital connectivity impacts.