Validity and reliability of the Weight Control Smoking Scale

The Weight Control Smoking Scale (WCSS), originally developed as part of a Reasons for Smoking Scale, includes 3 items (smoke to avoid weight gain; smoke to control appetite; less hungry when smoking). Although widely used, it has not previously been subjected to psychometric analysis. To fill this gap, we analyzed data from 1512 smokers. WCSS score correlated significantly and positively with the Dieting and Bingeing Severity Scale, self-efficacy about relapse if postcessation weight gain occurred, increased appetite/weight gain as a withdrawal symptom, and the Three Factor Eating Questionnaire subscales, and negatively with Body Satisfaction. Cronbach's alpha was .834. Female participants scored significantly higher than males. When only Black and White smokers were included, a significant interaction emerged such that White women scored higher than any other category. In a subsample of 50 smokers who completed the questionnaire twice, test–retest correlations were significant for all items and for the scale as a whole. Overall, our results suggest that the WCSS is a reliable and valid instrument that lends itself to use as a screening tool.