Year: 2009
Type: article
Abstract: The present study aimed at developing a new scale that operationalizes a hierarchical model of somatic complaints. First, 63 items representing a wide range of symptoms and sensations were compiled from somatic complaints scales and emotion literature. These complaints were rated by Belgian students (n = 307) and Belgian adults (n = 603). Exploratory factor analyses identified a gastrointestinal, cardiorespiratory, pain, temperature regulation, and fatigue factor. Next, the number of complaints was reduced to 18. Second, the short scale, called the Ghent Multidimensional Somatic Complaints Scale (GMSC), was administered to Belgian students (n = 735), Belgian adults (n = 664), and Turkish adults (n = 222). Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed that a higher-order model with five first-order and one second-order factor fitted best. Regression analyses demonstrated that the first-order factors were differentially related to anxiety, depression, anger, age, and gender. In sum, the GMSC scale offers the possibility to assess individual differences in somatic complaints from a hierarchical perspective.
Source: Assessment
Authors: Koen Beirens, Johnny R. J. Fontaine
Institution: Ghent University
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2096342899