Psychometric properties of a computerized version of the Physical Self-Description Questionnaire in Mexican adolescents

The aim of this research was to determine the psychometric properties proposed by Marsh et al. (2010) for the Physical Self-Description Questionnaire (PSDQ-S). The total sample has been composed by 1,071 teenagers from the city of Chihuahua, Mexico, with ages from 13 to 18 years old (M = 15.52 +/- 1.42 years). The Questionnaire was by computer. The factor structure of the questionnaire was analyzed through confirmatory factor analysis. This analysis shows that a nine-factor structure is viable and adequate for the total sample and the populations of athletes and non-athletes. The nine-factor structure (physical activity, appearance, body fat, coordination, endurance, flexibility, health, sport competence, and strength) is viable and reliable (GFI=.956; RMSEA=.041; CFI=.975). According to statistical and substantive criteria, the nine-factor structure showed adequate indicators of reliability and validity adjustments. In conclusion, the PSDQ-S can be a useful tool to advance in the study of the factors affecting physical self-concept.