Development, validation, and reliability testing of the College Perspectives around Food Insecurity survey
This study addresses the critical issue of food insecurity among college students, which affects an estimated 32% of the college student population. It details the development, validation, and reliability testing of the "College Perspectives around Food Insecurity" (CPFI) survey.
College of Health researcher(s)
College unit(s)
Abstract
The objective of this study was to develop and to test the validity and reliability of a survey aimed to evaluate internal and external factors associated with college food insecurity. Researchers used a mixed methods approach to evaluate the College Perspectives around Food Insecurity survey. Survey items were constructed from interview data and assigned a social cognitive theory concept (environment, personal, or behavior). Two rounds of expert reviews established content validity (Round 1, n = 3; Round 2, n = 2). Researchers evaluated face validity through two rounds of cognitive interviews with college students 18+ years old (Round 1, n = 9; Round 2, n = 16) and tested survey reliability (n = 105). Researchers used descriptive statistics, test-retest reliability statistics, and Cronbach’s alpha scores for data analysis. The initial survey contained 143 items. After feedback from expert reviewers and cognitive interviews, the final survey contained 99 items. Test-retest reliability was 0.99, and Cronbach’s alpha scores were 0.74 for environment, 0.47 for personal, and 0.39 for behavior. The College Perspectives around Food Insecurity survey can be used to better understand internal and external factors associated with food insecurity in college students, which can inform interventions aimed at assisting this population.
FAQ on the College Perspectives around Food Insecurity (CPFI) Survey
What is the purpose of the College Perspectives around Food Insecurity (CPFI) survey?
The CPFI survey aims to evaluate the internal and external factors associated with food insecurity among college students. It seeks to provide a tool for researchers to better understand the context of food insecurity experiences and inform interventions tailored to this population.
What is "food insecurity" as it is referenced in this study?
Food insecurity refers to inconsistent or limited access to the quality and quantity of food needed for a healthy, active life. Studies have shown a high prevalence of food insecurity among college students, with significant rates reported across the United States.
What theoretical framework is used to guide the CPFI survey's development?
The CPFI survey is framed around Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). This theory allows researchers to capture personal perceptions, behaviors, and environmental factors that influence food insecurity among college students, as expressed in previous qualitative interviews.
How was the CPFI survey developed and validated?
The CPFI survey was developed through a mixed-methods approach involving four phases:
- Phase 1: Translating qualitative interview data from college students into survey items based on SCT concepts (personal, behavioral, environmental).
- Phase 2: Conducting two rounds of expert reviews to establish content validity, focusing on clarity, importance, and appropriateness of the survey items.
- Phase 3: Conducting two rounds of cognitive interviews with college students to test face validity, ensuring that students interpret the questions as intended.
- Phase 4: Performing reliability testing using a test-retest approach to assess the survey's consistency over time.
What revisions were made to the survey based on expert reviews and cognitive interviews?
Based on expert reviews, items were revised for clarity, relevance, and theoretical alignment. Some items were deleted, added, or reclassified. Cognitive interviews led to further refinements, including clarifying questions, removing duplicates, and reevaluating the grouping of questions by theoretical concept. The survey was also shortened to reduce the burden on participants.
What were the main findings from the reliability testing phase?
The test-retest reliability statistic was very high (0.99), indicating excellent stability of the survey over time. However, Cronbach's alpha scores, used to assess internal consistency within the personal and behavioral subscales, did not meet the typical 0.7 threshold, although the environmental section did. This suggests that the survey is stable, but that more refinement may be needed to ensure that the personal and behavioral sections of the survey reliably measure what they intend to measure.
What demographic groups are most affected by food insecurity in college, according to the research mentioned in the document?
Student populations that experience higher rates of food insecurity include:
- Students of color
- First-generation college students
- Transgender students
- Students who are living off campus
- Students using financial aid.
What are some potential consequences of food insecurity for college students?
Food insecurity can have adverse effects on college students' academic, social, and physical well-being. These consequences may include:
- Unhealthy eating patterns (e.g., consuming low-quality, processed foods; skipping meals)
- Obesity
- Increased risk of disordered eating behaviors
- Poor mental health (depression, anxiety, stress)
- Decreased academic performance