Beliefs about binge eating: The psychometric properties of the Persian version of the eating beliefs questionnaire

Background: Metacognitive beliefs play an essential role in the maintenance of binge eating behavior. Examining the psychometric properties of tools in societies with different cultures than western societies can help with examining the external validity of those tools. This research aimed at standardization and validation of the Eating Beliefs Questionnaire (EBQ‑18) in Iran. Materials and Methods: Persian version of the EBQ‑18 was produced through forward translation, reconciliation, and back translation. A total of 302 non‑WEIRD nonclinical students were selected through convenience sampling method and completed a set of questionnaires, including the EBQ‑18, Eating Attitude Test‑16 (EAT‑16), Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale‑16 (DERS‑16), Weight Efficacy Lifestyle Questionnaire‑Short Form (SF), self‑esteem scale, and self-compassion scale (SCS) short-form. The construct validity of the EBQ‑18 was assessed using confirmatory factor analysis and divergent and convergent validity. Internal consistency and test‑retest reliability (2 weeks’ interval) were used to evaluate the reliability. Data analysis was performed using LISREL (version 8.8) and SSPS (version 22) softwares. Results: EBQ‑18 and subscales were found to be valid and reliable measures, with high test‑retest reliability and good internal consistency in the nonclinical sample. Cronbrash’s Alpha coefficient, for the whole of scale, negative beliefs scale, Permissive Beliefs scale, and Positive Beliefs scale were gained. 96.,89.,90, and. 94 respectively. Intraclass correlations coefficient, for the whole of scale, negative beliefs scale, Permissive Beliefs scale, and Positive Beliefs scale were gained. 84.,78.,75, and. 87, respectively. In terms of convergent validity, EBQ‑18 and subscales showed a significant positive correlation with selfreport measures of EAT‑16 and DERS‑16 (P < 0.01). EBQ‑18 and subscales showed a negative correlation with self‑compassion, self‑esteem, and eating self‑efficacy, thus demonstrated divergent validity with these constructs (P < 0.01). The results showed that three factors of negative beliefs, positive beliefs, and permissive beliefs had the goodness of fit indices (root mean square error of approximation = 0.08, normed fit index = 0.97, nonnormed fit index = 0.98, comparative fit index = 0.98, and standardized root mean square residual = 0.04). The results of this study support the EBQ‑18 three‑factor model. Conclusion: These findings indicate that the EBQ‑18 is a reliable measure of eating beliefs in the Iranian population. In addition, the study supplements the literature on the cross‑cultural validity of this measure.