An instrument assessing attitudes and beliefs toward human papillomavirus vaccination.

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to test the psychometric properties of a brief attitudes and beliefs toward human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination instrument in college students.

Design: Cross-sectional, observational study.

Sample: Eighty-six nursing students.

Measurements: The Attitudes and Beliefs Toward Human Papillomavirus Vaccination was used to test the reliability (Cronbach's alpha), homogeneity (item-analyses), and validity (factor analysis and correlations).

Results: The reliability of this 8-item instrument was supported by a Cronbach's alpha of .854. Item homogeneity was supported by coefficients for all items > .30. Convergent validity was supported by significant correlations of attitudes and beliefs assessed by this instrument to attitudes, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control assessed by different instruments (all ps < .001). Construct validity was supported by exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (all factor loadings ≥ .40). Predictive validity was supported by a significant relationship of attitudes and beliefs to completion of the vaccination (p < .001).

Conclusions: The Attitudes and Beliefs Toward Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Questionnaire was a reliable and valid instrument. This short instrument can be used to assess and improve attitudes and beliefs toward HPV vaccination, and, in turn, to facilitate the completion of the vaccination.