Development and psychometric validation of the Condom Attitude Scale: preliminary findings

Introduction: Condom use remains the only effective method for preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during sexual activity. Beyond medical and preventive factors, the effectiveness of condom use is strongly influenced by individuals’ attitudes towards them. This study aimed to develop and conduct a preliminary psychometric evaluation of the Condom Attitude Scale (CAS), a tool designed to measure attitudes towards condom use. Materials and methods: An 11-item preliminary version of the CAS was developed based on a literature review and tested in Poland in December 2024 as part of the POLARES project. Data were collected via CAWI. Out of 693 respondents, 313 sexually active individuals who used condoms irregularly or not at all, and were not trying to conceive, were included in the analysis. Most participants were women (69.3%). Psychometric properties were assessed using principal component analysis (PCA) and Cronbach’s α. Results: PCA supported a one-factor structure, resulting in a six-item final scale with factor loadings from 0.647 to 0.772. The scale showed satisfactory internal consistency (α = 0.790). Items reflect key barriers such as concerns about sexual satisfaction and fear of negative social judgment. Scores range from 6 to 30; higher scores indicate more negative attitudes. The mean score in the sample was 13.75 (SD = 5.92). Conclusions: CAS is a concise, six-item instrument demonstrating good psychometric properties. The scale holds potential for application in epidemiological research, as well as in health education, sex education, and STI prevention initiatives.