A decisional balance measure and the stages of change model of weight loss: Development and the reliability and validity of the Japanese edition of the Decisional Balance Inventory

Abstract

The Japanese Decisional Balance Inventory (DBI) was developed and its reliability and validity was examined. DBI measures behavioral change in weight loss and control. It is constructed by two sub-scale labeled benefits (Pros) and costs (Cons). The Inventory was administered to 988 female college students. Six items were excluded by factor analysis, leaving 14 items that were confirmed as reliable and valid. Results indicated high internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Correlational analyses with scores on the Japanese Food Choice Questionnaire (KC-FCQ), Japanese Situational Appetite Measure (KC-SAM) and Japanese Diet Efficacy Measure-6 (KC-DEM6) showed validity in relation to weight loss or control. Different scores of Pros and Cons, as well as the difference between Pros and Cons were also compared across groups representing five stages in the change process. The results were the same as the results of the previous study. The Decisional Balance Inventory Japanese Edition is available as a weight loss and control program.