Attitudes toward mastectomy : the development of a measurement scale

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Margaret Adair Rountree Heyl (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Rebecca M. Smith

Abstract: The central purposes of this study were to develop a valid and reliable instrument to measure attitudes toward mastectomy and to determine the number and nature of the variables contained within the instrument. Based on a review of literature, personal interviews, and open-ended questionnaires, a 36-item Likert-type attitude instrument was formulated. Face and content validity were established by the interjudge agreement of three separate panels of judges. The rotated factor matrix in the factor analysis identified five underlying variables contained within the instrument, thereby supporting the construct validity of the instrument. Reliability of the instrument was established through the use of a test-retest method using women of a wide age range who had not had mastectomies. The scores calculated using a Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient showed high reliability coefficients on factors concerning general sexual functioning (r=+.91), fears associated with rejection or physical pain (r=+.83), and self-image (r=+.81). Moderate reliability coefficients on factors concerning feminine appearance (r=+.73), feelings of shame (r=+.79), and significance of breasts (r=+.67) were obtained.

Additional Information

Publication
Dissertation
Language: English
Date: 1977
Subjects
Mastectomy $x Psychological aspects
Mastectomy $x Patients $x Attitudes
Mastectomy $x Public opinion

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