Measurement Properties of the Dizziness Handicap Inventory-Children and Adolescents for Children and Adolescents Postconcussion

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine and report the construct validity, internal consistency, and item structure of the Dizziness Handicap Inventory-Children and Adolescents (DHI-CA) in postconcussion children and adolescents. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted for 132 participants. Data were extracted on the DHI-CA, Sports Concussion Assessment Tool-III symptom inventory, and Vestibulo-ocular Motor Screening. The DHI-CA was examined for validity, internal consistency, and factor structure. Results: The DHI-CA had fair convergent validity (r(s)= 0.30-0.40), but discriminant validity findings were inconclusive. The functional subscale demonstrated least consistent loadings and 4 items had cross-loading. Reliability analysis indicated possible item redundancy given that the overall Cronbach alpha was higher than the subscales. Conclusion: Despite demonstrating convergent validity, structural inconsistencies and possible item redundancy warrant further exploration and restructuring of the DHI-CA. Caution is recommended while making clinical decisions based on the DHI-CA results alone.