Confirmatory factor analysis of the Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q)

ObjectiveTo compare the goodness-of-fit of five models of Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q) data, in clinical and community samples.MethodThe EDE-Q was administered to 228 eating disorder patients and 211 non-eating disordered university students. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to compare the validity of the original four EDE-Q subscales with that of brief one-factor, extended one-factor, two-factor, and three-factor models. Measurement invariance across the two samples was considered.ResultsThe only model to provide an acceptable fit to the data was the brief one-factor model consisting of eight Weight and Shape Concern items. Scores on this scale correlated highly with the original EDE-Q subscales.ConclusionThe reliability of the EDE-Q may be increased if a modified scoring system is used. This complements findings from recent research with the Eating Disorder Examination (EDE).

Research highlights
► Confirmatory factor analysis did not support the EDE-Q subscales currently in use.
► Alternative factor solutions using all EDE-Q items provided a poor fit to the data.
► A reduced set of eight Weight and Shape Concern items provides a valid alternative.