Epistemological beliefs of European physiotherapists – a multi-countrycross-cultural adaptation for the DEBQ and the CAEB questionnaires

Abstract

This article assumes that epistemological beliefs of physiotherapists are an important determinant in improving the concept of evidence-based practice. Little research has been done on epistemological beliefs in physiotherapy. In order to measure the sophistication of epistemological beliefs in future research, two complementary questionnaires (DEBQ and CAEB) were cross-culturally adapted in nine different countries and seven languages in Europe. A standardized seven-step guideline was used to translate and culturally validate the questionnaires. The questionnaires were distributed in the respective countries, resulting in 1386 participants. The psychometric values were analysed in order to verify consistency and validity. Based on the validation process, the instruments are considered to be validly adapted for the countries involved. The uniformity in the adaptation process allows for future comparison of the countries.

Keywords:

• Cross-cultural adaptation
• evidence-based practice
• epistemological beliefs

Disclosure statement

The authors have declared that there are no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the authorship and/or publication of this article. This study has no funding resource and follows the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki with regard to ethical considerations. This study and manuscript have not been previously presented or published elsewhere.