Breastfeeding and complementary feeding knowledge scale: a validated tool for health sciences education

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to develop a valid and reliable measurement instrument to assess the knowledge levels of health sciences students regarding breastfeeding and complementary feeding. Within this scope, the psychometric properties of the "Breastfeeding and Complementary Feeding Knowledge Scale" were also evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted with 2173 students enrolled in the Faculty of Health Sciences. Scale items were developed based on a literature review and expert opinions. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were performed to test construct validity. The reliability of the scale was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha and McDonald's omega coefficients. In addition, as part of criterion-related validity, correlation analyses were conducted with the Health Literacy Scale-Short Form (HLS-TR Short Form) and the Digital Healthy Diet Literacy Scale (e-HDL). RESULTS: The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) value was determined as 0.621, and Bartlett's test was significant (p < 0.001). The total explained variance ratio was 27.73%. Factor loadings ranged from 0.325 to 0.847. Cronbach's alpha coefficient was calculated as 0.768, and McDonald's omega coefficient as 0.772. The model fit indices from the Confirmatory Factor Analysis indicated an acceptable model fit (χ²/df = 5.59; GFI = 0.937; AGFI = 0.926; RMSEA = 0.046; RMR = 0.01; CFI = 0.892; TLI = 0.884). Parallel analysis supported a two-factor solution, and the factor structure was stable across split subsamples. Very weak positive correlations were observed, indicating limited practical significance despite statistical significance. CONCLUSION: The "Breastfeeding and Complementary Feeding Knowledge Scale" is a valid and reliable instrument that can be used to measure the knowledge levels of health sciences students regarding breastfeeding and complementary feeding. The scale is considered useful for evaluating the effectiveness of educational programs and for use in curriculum development processes.