Translation and Validation of the Japanese Version of the Family Sense of Coherence Scale-Short Form in Nurses

摘要

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to translate the Family Sense of Coherence Scale-short form (FSOC-S) into a Japanese version (J-FSOC-S) for Japanese nurses and to evaluate its reliability and validity. Methods: First, we obtained permission to translate the FSOC-S from the original author and translated it into Japanese using the translation/back translation technique. Second, the J-FSOC-S was reviewed by a panel of experts in nursing research and practice, then, a validation survey was conducted. The internal consistency of the J-FSOC-S was assessed using Cronbach’s α coefficient. Test-retest reliability was examined through intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC). Construct validity was investigated by measuring the correlation coefficients between the J-FSOC-S and Sense of Coherence (SOC) Scale (concurrent validity) and the Family Adaptability Partnership, Growth, Affection, and Resolve Index (Family APGAR) (convergent validity). Results: A total of 374 nurses (valid response rate = 58.6%) were recruited from seven hospitals. Thirty-four participants completed the questionnaire twice at an interval of 2 - 4 weeks to test the reliability. The mean age of the participants was 35.0 years (SD = 7.6, range = 25 - 59). The mean years of experience as a registered nurse were 11.0 years (SD = 7.1, range = 5 - 36). Of the total number of participants, 53.7% had children. The J-FSOC-S showed good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.85) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.77). The J-FSOC-S correlated positively with the SOC Scale (r = 0.41, p < 0.01) and the Family APGAR (r = 0.62, p < 0.01). Conclusions: The J-FSOC-S is a reliable and valid instrument for measuring family sense of coherence in Japan.