The psychometric properties of a novel task-based dance self-efficacy measure for older adult dance program participants

ABSTRACT

Background

Self-efficacy for dance may reflect individual differences in factors likely to influence dance program participation. This study investigated the psychometric properties of six novel task-based dance self-efficacy (t-bDSE) questions for older adults participating in two large-scale dance intervention trials (N₁ = 530; N₂ = 131).

Methodology

Internal consistency of t-bDSE was assessed and items validated according to age, gender, physical ability, cognitive status, psychosocial wellbeing, dance experience and exercise behaviour. Responsiveness of t-bDSE was investigated by comparing dance program participants to control groups.

Results

Internal consistency was high (Cronbach’s α = .88). Dance self-efficacy was weaker in participantswith less dance experience, poorer mental health, poorer cognitive and physical abilities, and insufficiently active. t-bDSE scores improved in aged-care trial participants (ηp² = .05, a moderate effect).

Conclusions

The dance self-efficacy measure demonstrated good criterion and construct validity and can be included in future dance interventions to improve understanding of outcome variability and inform program evaluation.

KEYWORDS:

• Dance
• older adults
• self-efficacy
• exercise intervention
• tests of validity

Acknowledgments

The contribution by ACG was supported by the Prevention Research Support Program funded by the NSW Ministry of Health. The IRT Research Foundation provided funding for the Dancing Minds community trial, and the National Health and Medical Council funded the DAnCE and Falls aged-care study.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).