Background and purpose: An instrument to measure wellness behaviors in adolescent females did not appear in the literature. The purpose of this article is to describe the development and evaluation of the Self-Rated Abilities for Health and Practices Scale-Adolescent Version (SRAHP-A).
Methods: Initial psychometric testing was conducted with a sample of 265 adolescents and young adults aged 13-24 years. Data collection occurred through paper and pencil surveys.
Results: Exploratory factor analysis using maximum likelihood factor extraction method and oblique ration was conducted. A four-factor structure consisting of Exercise, Nutrition, Health Practices, and Well-Being emerged.
Conclusions: Initial psychometric testing suggested that it is a valid and reliable measure of wellness behaviors in adolescent females. Further testing is necessary; however, it appears this instrument has the potential to move wellness care for adolescents and young adults forward.