Research Paper: The Validity and Reliability of the Persian Version of the Leeds Dependence Questionnaire

Objectives: The follow-up treatment or rehabilitation and monitoring of patients with drug abuse disorders require an efficient tool with a convenient and short-time implementation to measure psychological aspects of dependence. The Leeds Dependence Questionnaire (LDQ) has such features; thus, the present study aimed at evaluating the validity and reliability of its Persian version. Methods: The current validation study explored the data obtained from 142 substance dependent patients selected from drug addiction treatment centers in Tehran City, Iran. The criterion-related validity of the Persian version of the LDQ was evaluated by measuring its correlation with the Substance Dependence Severity Scale (SDSS). The construct validity of the Persian version of the LDQ was evaluated using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ). Moreover, the internal consistency and reliability of this scale were calculated by Cronbach’s alpha coefficient and test-retest reliability methods, respectively. Results: The correlation coefficients between the LDQ and SDSS and GHQ were 0.773 and 0.780, respectively; the correlations were statistically significant (P<0.001). A Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.809 was obtained by investigating the internal consistency of the tool. Test-retest reliability for a two-week interval was 0.963. Discussion: The criterion-related validity, construct validity, internal consistency, and testretest reliability values of the Persian version of the LDQ are approvable; therefore, it can be applied as a valid and reliable tool on the Iranian population.