Psychometric properties of the muscle dysmorphic disorder inventory among physical active brazilian men

Abstract

A large body of knowledge already exists on muscle dysmorphia, especially for bodybuilders and weightlifters men. However, systematic reviews and meta-analysis point to limitations in several studies in which muscle dysmorphia is not assessed by valid and reliable instruments. For example, in some studies, researches employed the drive for muscularity assessment tools, but these measures do not assess muscle dysmorphia symptoms. This study evaluated the factorial, convergent, and concurrent validity, as well as the reliability of the Muscle Dysmorphic Disorder Inventory (MDDI) when applied to a total of 351 physical active Brazilian men. Confirmatory factor analysis, convergent and concurrent validity, estimated internal consistency, and test-retest reliability of the MDDI’s scores were examined. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis upheld the original three-factor structure (13 items) of the MDDI for Brazilian men. The MDDI’s scores presented a significant and strong association with body attitudes measures, moderate association with male body dissatisfaction and drive for muscularity. Significant small association was observed between MDDI scores and depressive symptoms and psychological commitment to exercise. Adequate internal consistency and 2-week test-retest reliability were found. The Brazilian version of MDDI showed adequate psychometric properties among physically active men.