Development and Psychometric Testing of the Coach Self-Efficacy Body Image Scale

Abstract

Body image concerns is a commonly cited reason for sport drop out among young female athletes (Neumark-Sztainer et al., 2018; Slater & Tiggemann, 2011). Research has begun to explore the systemic issues that underpin abusive, disordered, and uninformed coaching. However, no measure exists to accurately assess interventions or predict coach body image supportive behaviors. Using self-efficacy theory as a conceptual framework, the Coach Self-Efficacy Body Image Scale (CSEBIS) was developed. Content validity was judged by a panel of experts (n = 3) and through interviews with coaches (n = 4) of across levels of experience. Following a pilot test, the CSEBIS was assessed with 708 coaches for reliability and validity, including internal consistency, comparison of contrasted groups, and correlations with measures of similar constructs. Following further testing, this instrument may be used to accurately assess the effectiveness of body image education and intervention efforts in the sport context.