El orden de nacimiento como factor de riesgo para ser víctima de trata sexual en el triángulo norte de Centroamérica / Birth order as a risk factor for being victim of sex trafficking in the northern triangle of Central America

RESUMEN Las redes de tráfico humano para la prostitución captan a menores vulnerables, en especial, a quienes consideran no les queda otra opción que emigrar al norte para hacer frente a problemas económicos graves. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue establecer si el orden de nacimiento representó un factor de riesgo, asociado a la vulnerabilidad para la trata sexual de menores centroamericanas, traficadas a Estados Unidos. Las entrevistadas mostraban vulnerabilidades vinculadas con estructuras sociales y conductas individuales. Por una parte, todas crecieron en hogares caracterizados por la pobreza extrema. Por otra parte, también presentaban vulnerabilidades relacionadas con el embarazo adolescente, la falta de educación, la disfuncionalidad familiar y la participación en mercados ilegales. Ocupar el primer lugar en orden de nacimiento eleva la vulnerabilidad de las menores a ser traficadas a Estados Unidos para el comercio sexual. Por el contrario, ocupar el último lugar disminuye este riesgo.

ABSTRACT Human trafficking networks for prostitution recruit vulnerable underage girls, especially those who are considered with no choice but to migrate north to cope with serious economic problems. The aim of this work was to determine if birth order represented a risk factor associated to the vulnerability for sex trafficking of Central American female minors. The interviewees presented vulnerabilities associated to social structures and individual behaviors. On the one hand, all of them grew up in house holds characterized by extreme poverty. On the other hand, they also had vulnerabilities related to teenage pregnancy, lack of education, family dysfunction and participation in illegal markets. Findings suggest that occupying the first place in the order of birth raises the vulnerability of minors to being trafficked to the United States for sex trade. On the contrary, occupying the last place decreases this risk.

Positive Mental Health Scale (PMHS) in Parents of Children with Cancer: A Psychometric Evaluation Using Item Response Theory.

Mental health is currently a public health issue worldwide. However, evidence is lacking regarding the validity of the instruments used to measure and assess positive mental health in specific populations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the PMHS using IRT. A cross-sectional retrospective study with non-probabilistic convenience sampling was conducted with 623 parents of children undergoing cancer treatment at the National Institute of Health in Mexico City. The participants responded to a battery of tests, including a sociodemographic questionnaire, the PMHS, Measurement Scale of Resilience, Beck Depression Inventory, Inventory of Quality of Life, Beck Anxiety Inventory, an interview regarding caregiver burden, and the World Health Organization Well-Being Index. PMHS responses were analyzed using Samejima's graded response model. The PMHS findings indicated that the IRT-based graded response model validated the single latent trait model. The scale scores were independent of depression, anxiety, well-being, caregiver burden, quality of life, and resilience. The PMHS scores were associated with low subjective well-being. The PMHS findings reveal that from an IRT-based perspective, this scale is unidimensional and is a valid, reliable, and culturally relevant instrument for assessing positive mental health in parents of children with chronic diseases.

Resilience measurement scale in family caregivers of children with cancer: Multidimensional item response theory modeling.

Background: Currently, information about the psychometric properties of the Resilience Measurement Scale (RESI-M) in family caregivers of children with cancer according to item response theory (IRT) is not available; this information could complement and confirm the findings available from classical test theory (CTT). The objective of this study was to test the five-factor structure of the RESI-M using a full information confirmatory multidimensional IRT graded response model and to estimate the multidimensional item-level parameters of discrimination (MDISC) and difficulty (MDIFF) from the RESI-M scale to investigate its construct validity and level of measurement error. Methods: An observational study was carried out, which included a sample of 633 primary caregivers of children with cancer, who were recruited through nonprobabilistic sampling. The caregivers responded to a battery of tests that included a sociodemographic variables questionnaire, the RESI-M, and measures of depression, quality of life, anxiety, and caregiver burden to explore convergent and divergent validity. Results: The main findings confirmed a five-factor structure of the RESI-M scale, with RMSEA = 0.078 (95% CI: 0.075, 0.080), TLI = 0.90, and CFI = 0.91. The estimation of the MDISC and MDIFF parameters indicated different values for each item, showing that all the items contribute differentially to the measurement of the dimensions of resilience. Conclusion: That regardless of the measurement approach (IRT or CTT), the five-factor model of the RESI-M is valid at the theoretical, empirical, and methodological levels.

Medical outcomes study social support survey (MOS-SSS) in patients with chronic disease: A psychometric assessment.

Purpose: Currently, information on the psychometric properties of the Medical outcomes study-social support survey (MOS-SSS) for patients with chronic disease in primary health care, suggests problems in the dimensionality, specifically predominant unidimensionality in a multidimensional measure. The aim of this study was to determine the internal structure (dimensionality, measurement invariance and reliability) and association with other variables. Methods: A total of 470 patients with chronic disease from a Family Medicine Unit at the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, IMSS, with a mean age of 51.51 years were included. Participants responded to the Questionnaire of Sociodemographic Variables (Q-SV), SF-36 Health-Related Quality of Life Scale-version 1.1, and MOS-SSS. Results: Non-parametric (Mokken scaling analysis) and parametric (confirmatory factor analysis) analyses indicated unidimensionality, and three-factor model was not representative. A new 8-item version (MOS-S) was developed, where measurement invariance, equivalence with the long version, reliability, and relationship with the SF-36 were satisfactory. Conclusion: The MOS-SSS scale is unidimensional, and the shortened version yields valid and reliable scores for measuring social support in patients with chronic disease at the primary health care.

Factor structure, internal consistency and distribution of Female Sexual Function Index among Mexican women with early diagnostic of breast cancer / Estructura factorial, consistencia interna y distribución del Índice de Función Sexual Femenina entre mujeres mexicanas con diagnóstico temprano de cáncer de mama

Background: Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) occurs frequently in women with breast cancer due to oncologic treatments. It is essential to have a validated instrument to diagnose and quantify FSD in this population accurately. Objective: To validate the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Method: The FSFI was applied to 272 sexually active Mexican women with recent diagnosis of breast cancer who had not initiated systemic cancer treatment. Results: The FSFI six-factor model is valid by confirmatory factor analysis, and the inventory and its factors have adequate internal consistency reliability. Conclusions: This study provides enough evidence about the reliability and factor structure of the FSFI questionnaire in the context of breast cancer clinical practice in Mexico (AU)

Antecedentes: La disfunción sexual femenina (FSD) ocurre con frecuencia en mujeres con cáncer de mama debido a los tratamientos oncológicos. Es fundamental contar con un instrumento validado para diagnosticar y cuantificar la FSD en esta población con precisión. Objetivo Validar el Índice de Función Sexual Femenina (FSFI). Método: El FSFI se aplicó a 272 mujeres mexicanas sexualmente activas con diagnóstico reciente de cáncer de mama que no habían iniciado tratamiento oncológico sistémico. Resultados: El modelo de seis factores de la FSFI se validó por análisis factorial confirmatorio y el inventario y sus factores tienen una fiabilidad de consistencia interna adecuada. Conclusiones: Este estudio proporciona suficiente evidencia sobre la confiabilidad y la estructura factorial del cuestionario FSFI en el contexto de la práctica clínica del cáncer de mama en México (AU)

Psychosocial Factors Predicting Resilience in Family Caregivers of Children with Cancer: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Chronic diseases in childhood can affect the physical and mental health of patients and their families. The objective of this study was to identify the sociodemographic and psychosocial factors that predict resilience in family caregivers of children with cancer and to define whether there are differences in the levels of resilience derived from these sociodemographic variables. Three hundred and thirty family caregivers of children with cancer, with an average age of 32.6 years were interviewed. The caregivers responded to a battery of tests that included a questionnaire of sociodemographic variables, the Measuring Scale of Resilience, the Beck Depression Inventory, the Inventory of Quality of Life, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, an interview of caregiver burden and the World Health Organization Well-Being Index. The main findings indicate that family caregivers of children with cancer reported high levels of resilience, which were associated positively with quality of life, psychological well-being and years of study and associated negatively with depression, anxiety and caregiver burden. The variables that predicted resilience in families of children with cancer were quality of life, psychological well-being, depression and number of children. Family caregivers who were married and Catholic showed higher resilience scores. We conclude that being a caregiver in a family with children with cancer is associated with symptoms of anxiety and with depressive episodes. These issues can be overcome through family strength, well-being, quality of life and positive adaptation processes and mobilization of family resources.

Validación del modelo de cinco factores de la Escala de Actitud hacia la Estadística en estudiantes mexicanos de psicología / Validation of the five-factor model of the Attitude Scale towards Statistics in Mexican psychology students

Resumen La actitud positiva hacia la estadística promueve el estudio y uso de esta disciplina fundamental para analizar datos; de ahí la relevancia de evaluar el nivel actitudinal y desarrollar estrategias que lo potencien. La Escala de Actitud hacia la Estadística (EAE-25) de Auzmendi es uno de los instrumentos más usados en español para medir esta actitud, pero no se ha validado en México, lo que es importante para su uso en este país y para aportar evidencias de validez. Los objetivos del estudio fueron contrastar el modelo propuesto originariamente, comprobar su consistencia interna, describir su distribución, comparar los promedios entre sexos y verificar su validez concurrente. Este estudio instrumental usó un muestreo no probabilístico. Se analizó una muestra de 383 estudiantes de psicología mexicanos (73.6 % mujeres y 26.4 % hombres) que respondieron a dos escalas de actitud. El modelo de cinco factores (confianza, ansiedad, agrado, utilidad y motivación) mostró buen ajuste a los datos. Sus factores presentaron confiabilidad y validez discriminante. La distribución de las puntuaciones en EAE-25 fue normal. La actitud se polarizó, aproximadamente, en cuatro de cada diez estudiantes hacia la aceptación y en uno de cada diez hacia el rechazo. No hubo diferencias de medias entre sexos. La EAE-25 tuvo correlación alta con actitud hacia la investigación y baja con la calificación en la materia de investigación del semestre anterior. Se concluye que la EAE-25 presenta consistencia interna y validez de constructo.

Abstract The positive attitude towards statistics promotes the study and use of this fundamental discipline to analyze data, hence the relevance of evaluating the attitudinal level and developing strategies that promote a positive attitude. The Auzmendi's Scale of Attitude towards Statistics (EAE-25) is one of the most used instruments in Spanish language to assess this attitude; however, it has not been validated in Mexico, which is important for its use in this country and to provide evidence of validity. The objectives of the study were to test the originally proposed model, to verify its reliability, to describe its distribution, to compare the averages between both sexes, and to verify its concurrent validity. A non-probabilistic sampling was used in this instrumental study. A sample of 383 Mexican psychology students was analyzed (73.6 % women and 26.4 % men). The EAE-25 and a scale assessing attitude towards research were applied. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to test the Auzmendi's five-factor model. The parameter estimation was performed by unweighted least squares, using polychoric correlation matrix. The internal consistency was estimated by the McDonald's omega coefficient (ω), the convergent validity by the average variance extracted (AVE), and the discriminant validity by the heterotrait-monotrait ratio of correlations (HTMT). The mean differences between both sexes were tested through the t-test and concurrent validity through Pearson's correlation coefficients. The model of five correlated factors (confidence, anxiety, pleasure, usefulness, and motivation) showed good fit (χ./df =1.79, GFI = .98, AGFI = .97, NFI = .97, CFI =.99, RMSEA = .04, and SRMR = .07). The five factors showed reliability (ω > .80 in confidence, anxiety, pleasure, and usefulness, and ω = .72 in motivation) and discriminant validity (HTMT < .85 in nine out of ten factor pairs, and < .90 in the pair of the anxiety and confidence factors). The values of AVE were higher than .50 in the factors of confidence, anxiety and pleasure, which shows convergent validity in these three factors. A value of AVE very close to .50 in utility (AVE = .49) was compensated by an omega coefficient of .82, which suggests an acceptable convergent validity. However, the value of AVE was lower than .50 in motivation (AVE = .34). The EAE-25 and its factors presented normal distribution, with the exception of the motivation factor. The scores in the scale and its factors were obtained through the quotient between the sum of the items scored in the sense of acceptance attitude and the number of items added. These scores were interpreted in an absolute sense, by dividing the continuum from 1 to 5 into five intervals in correspondence with the five ordered categories of response to the items: [1, 1.8) y [1.8, 2.6) rejection, [2.6, 3.4) neutral, and [3.4, 4.2) y [4.2, 5] acceptance. The average attitude was positive in confidence (. = 3.53) and utility (. = 3.52), and neutral in the EAE-25 total score and its other three factors. The EAE-25 total scores were polarized towards acceptance in approximately four out of ten students and towards the rejected in approximately one out of ten; in the rest, they were neutral. There were no differences of means between both sexes. The EAE-25 total score had a high correlation with the total score in the scale of attitude towards research (. = .52, . < .001) and low with the qualification in the research subject of the previous semester (. = .13, . < .001). It is concluded that EAE-25 presents internal consistency and construct validity. It is suggested to use this scale in applied research in the field of university education and upper secondary education.

Factors associated with the desire to undergo post-mastectomy breast reconstruction in a Mexican breast cancer center.

PURPOSE: To assess the proportion of breast cancer patients treated with total mastectomy who are interested in undergoing breast reconstruction, the factors associated with their desire to undergo this procedure, and the motives stated for their decision. METHODS: Women with stage I-III breast cancer, public health insurance, and history of total mastectomy treated at a center in Monterrey, Mexico, were invited to answer a series of questionnaires regarding their clinical and demographic characteristics, information received about breast reconstruction, body image, and relationship satisfaction. RESULTS: A total of 100 patients were interviewed, of which 68% desired to undergo breast reconstruction. Only 35% recalled talking about this procedure with a physician and 85% claimed not to have enough information to make an informed decision. Those who desired breast reconstruction were younger (p < 0.001), more likely to be in a relationship (p = 0.025), and had a higher probability of having talked to a physician about the procedure (p = 0.019). Furthermore, they felt less sexually attractive (p < 0.001), more deformed (p = 0.006), and less feminine (p = 0.005) since the mastectomy. The main motives to undergo this procedure were to have breast symmetry and greater freedom on which clothes to wear, while the main deterrent was the high economical cost. CONCLUSIONS: Insufficient information about the procedure and high economical cost were identified as potential barriers to undergo breast reconstruction. The findings of this study emphasize the pressing need to optimize patient care by providing information in a standardized manner and improving access to breast reconstruction within the Mexican public healthcare system.

Modelo predictivo de conducta de infidelidad sexual entre personas casadas / Predictive model of sexual infidelity behavior among married persons

Resumen La infidelidad marital es relativamente frecuente a pesar de sus consecuencias. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo desarrollar un modelo predictivo de la conducta sexual infiel en personas casadas, mediante el análisis de siete variables que participan en el fenómeno de la infidelidad. Se colectó una muestra de 790 personas casadas (53.4 % mujeres y 47.6 % hombres) por rutas al azar en Monterrey, México. Se aplicó la Escala de Valoración de la Relación, Índice de Satisfacción Sexual, Escala de Actitud hacia la Exclusividad Marital, Escalas de Conducta Infiel, Escala de Búsqueda de Sensaciones Sexuales y Escala de Engrandecimiento Marital. Se especificó el modelo con 2 variables exógenas correlacionadas (búsqueda de sensaciones sexuales y engrandecimiento marital) y 5 variables endógenas (actitud hacia la infidelidad, satisfacción marital, satisfacción sexual, deseo de infidelidad sexual y conducta de infidelidad sexual). De cada 100 participantes, 6 estaban insatisfechos con su matrimonio, 13 con las relaciones sexuales con su pareja y 20 veían más defectos que virtudes en sus parejas. Además, 83 informaron no incurrir en conductas de infidelidad sexual, 60 indicaron total rechazo hacia la propia infidelidad, 72 no mostraron deseo de infidelidad sexual y 51 reportaron no buscar de sensaciones sexuales. El modelo mostró un efecto grande sobre la conducta de infidelidad sexual, explicando 70.8 % de su varianza, y tuvo un buen ajuste: χ 2 (7) = 11.93, P = 0.10, RMSEA = 0.03 y SRMR = 0.01. Se concluye que la variable más crítica es el deseo de infidelidad sexual, cuyo determinante más importante es la búsqueda de sensaciones sexuales. La correlación negativa entre esta última variable y engrandecimiento marital indica que estas 2 variables se pueden modular una a la otra. A su vez, el modelo remarca aspectos de insatisfacción marital y sexual.

Abstract Marital infidelity is relatively frequent despite its consequences. The aim of the study was to develop a predictive model of sexual infidelity behavior among married persons, through the analysis of seven variables related to the infidelity construct. A sample of 790 married persons (53.4 % women and 47.6 % men) was collected in Monterrey, Mexico using random route sampling. The Relationship Assessment Scale, Sexual Satisfaction Index, Attitude toward Marital Exclusivity Scale, Unfaithful Behavior Scales, Sexual Sensation Seeking Scale, and Marital Aggrandizement Scale were applied. A model with 2 correlated exogenous variables (sexual sensation seeking and marital aggrandizement) and 5 endogenous variables (attitude towards infidelity, marital satisfaction, sexual satisfaction, desire for sexual infidelity, and sexual infidelity behavior) was specified. Six out of 100 participants were dissatisfied with their marriage and 13 with sexual relations with their partner and 20 saw more defects than virtues in their partners. In addition, 83 informed not engaging in sexual infidelity behaviors, 60 indicated total rejection towards own sexual infidelity, 72 showed no desire for sexual infidelity and 51 reported not seeking sexual sensations. The model showed a large effect on the sexual infidelity behavior, explaining 70.8 % of its variance, and had a close fit: χ 2 (7) = 11.93, P-value = 0.10, RMSEA = 0.03, and SRMR = 0.01. It is concluded that the most critical variable in the model is the desire for sexual infidelity, whose most important determinant was the sexual sensation seeking. The negative correlation between this last variable and marital aggrandizement indicates that these 2 variables can be modulated one to the other. Furthermore, the model highlights aspects of marital and sexual dissatisfaction.

Predictors of Quality of Life among Parents of Children with Chronic Diseases: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Quality of life (QOL) is a key aspect of the health care process for children with chronic diseases and their families. Although clinical evidence regarding the impact of chronic disease on children exists, few studies have evaluated the effects of the interaction between sociodemographic and psychosocial factors on the family caregiver's QOL, indicating a significant gap in the research literature. The present study aimed to identify the predictors of the QOL of parents of children with chronic diseases. Three parental sociodemographic predictors (age, schooling, and family income) and four psychosocial predictors (family functioning, social support, depression, and resilience) were examined. In this cross-sectional study, 416 parents of children with chronic diseases who were hospitalized at a National Institute of Health in Mexico City were interviewed. The participants completed a sociodemographic variables questionnaire (Q-SV) designed for research on family caregivers of children with chronic disease. The predicted variable was assessed through the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire. The four psychosocial predictors were assessed through the Family Functioning Scale, Social Support Networks Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, and Measurement Scale of Resilience. The regression model explained 42% of the variance in parents' QOL. The predictors with positive weights included age, schooling, monthly family income, family functioning, social support networks, and parental resilience. The predictors with negative weights included depression. These findings suggest that strong social relationships, a positive family environment, family cohesion, personal resilience, low levels of depression, and a family income twice the minimum wage are variables associated with better parental QOL.

The Social Support Networks Scale (SSNS) for Family Caregivers of Children with Cancer: A Psychometric Evaluation.

Currently, information about the psychometric properties of the Social Support Networks Scale (SSNS) for family caregivers of children with cancer is not yet available; therefore, there is no empirical evidence of its validity and reliability to support its use in this population. The aim of this study is to determine a factorial model of the SSNS, estimate its internal consistency reliability, describe its distribution, and check its concurrent validity. A convenience sample of 633 family caregivers of children with cancer hospitalized in a National Institute of Health in Mexico City was collected. The SSNS, a sociodemographic variables questionnaire, and three instruments that evaluated family functioning, quality of life, and resilience were applied. The five-factor model had a poor data fit and lacked discriminant validity. The sample was divided. In a subsample of 316 participants, exploratory factor analysis suggested a four-factor model. When testing the four-factor model through confirmatory factor analysis, religious support was independent of family support, friend support, and lack of support. In the other subsample of 317 participants, the one-factor model for religious support had a good fit, and the correlated three-factor model, with the remaining factors, showed an acceptable fit. Reliability ranged from acceptable (Guttman's λ2 = 0.72) to good (λ2 = 0.88). Socio-family support and its three factors were correlated with family functioning, resilience, and quality of life. Religious support was correlated with four factors of resilience and quality of life. A scale of socio-family support with three factors and an independent scale for religious support are defined from the SSNS, and they showed internal consistency and construct validity.

Validity and Reliability of the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) for Family Caregivers of Children with Cancer.

Currently, information about the psychometric properties of the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) in family caregivers of children with cancer is not available; thus, there is no empirical evidence of its validity and reliability to support its use in this population in Mexico or in other countries. This study examined the psychometric properties of the BAI in family caregivers of children with cancer and pursued four objectives: to determine the factor structure of the BAI, estimate its internal consistency reliability, describe the distribution of BAI scores and the level of anxiety in the sample and test its concurrent validity in relation to depression and resilience. This cross-sectional study was carried out with convenience sampling. A sociodemographic questionnaire, the BAI, the Beck Depression Inventory and the Measurement Scale of Resilience were administered to an incidental sample of 445 family caregivers of children with cancer hospitalized at the National Institute of Health in Mexico City. Confirmatory factor analysis using the maximum likelihood method was performed to determine the factor structure and exploratory factor analysis using axis factorization with oblique rotation was conducted. The two-, three- and four-factor models originally proposed for the BAI did not hold. The exploratory factor analysis showed a model of two correlated factors (physiological and emotional symptoms). Confirmatory factor analysis revealed a lack of discriminant validity between these two factors and supported a single-factor model. The internal consistency of the scale reduced to 11 items (BAI-11) was good (alpha = 0.89). The distribution of BAI-11 scores was skewed to the left. High levels of symptoms of anxiety were present in 49.4% of caregivers. The scale was positively correlated with depression and negatively correlated with resilience. These findings suggest that a reduced single-factor version of the BAI is valid for Mexican family caregivers of children with cancer.

Validación de una escala para medir actitud hacia la infidelidad en personas mexicanas casadas de Monterrey / Validation of a Scale to Assess Attitude Towards Infi delity Among Married Mexicans from Monterrey

Resumen Se ha propuesto que la actitud de rechazo hacia la infidelidad actúa como factor protector de sexo extradiádico, el cual puede tener efectos negativos para la estabilidad de la pareja. La escala de actitud hacia exclusividad marital (ATMES, por sus siglas en inglés: Attitude Toward Marital Exclusivity Scale) es un instrumento breve. Se usa en la investigación para medir actitud hacia la infidelidad a la pareja, pero no está validado en México. Este artículo tiene como objetivos validar la ATMES y contrastar un modelo para predecir infidelidad sexual. Se usó un muestreo de rutas al azar. A 727 personas casadas mexicanas (52.8% mujeres y 47.2% hombres) se les aplicó cuatro instrumentos de medida. La consistencia interna de la ATMES fue excelente, su distribución mostró asimetría positiva y se validó el modelo de un factor. Un modelo en el que el deseo de infidelidad sexual predice la infidelidad sexual, el deseo de infidelidad sexual es predicho por actitud hacia la infidelidad, satisfacción marital y búsqueda de sensaciones sexuales y estas dos últimas variables correlacionadas predicen actitud hacia la infidelidad, tuvo buen ajuste a los datos. Se concluye que la ATMES es una medida unidimensional, consistente y presenta evidencias de validez de constructo.

Abstract: It has been proposed that an attitude of rejection toward infidelity acts as a protective factor from extradyadic sex, which can have negative effects for the stability of the couple. The Attitude Toward Marital Exclusivity Scale (ATMES) is a brief instrument, used in research, but it is not validated in Mexico. The objectives of this article were to validate the ATMES, and to contrast a model to predict sexual infidelity. A random-route sampling was used. A questionnaire composed of four scales was administered to 727 Mexican married persons (52.8% women and 47.2% men). The internal consistency of ATMES was excellent, the distribution of ATMES scores showed positive asymmetry, and the one-factor model was validated. A model, in which the desire for sexual infidelity predicts sexual infidelity, the desire for sexual infidelity is predicted by attitude toward infidelity, marital satisfaction and sexual sensation seeking and these last two correlated variables predict attitude toward infidelity, had a good fit to the data, and was valid for both sexes. It is concluded that ATMES is a consistent, one-dimensional measure, that shows evidence of construct validity.

Structure analysis of subjective well-being / Análisis de la estructura del bienestar subjetivo

Abstract Introduction There is controversy regarding the structure of subjective well-being (SWB) and the possibility of calculating a SWB total score. Objective To test and compare five models proposed for the description of SWB. Method The study was implemented with a cross-sectional, ex-post-facto design using an incidental sampling method. The Positive and Negative Experience Scale and the Satisfaction with Life Scale were applied to a sample composed of 600 students of health sciences from two universities of Nuevo Leon, Mexico. Data were analyzed through a structural equation modeling, using Maximum Likelihood and Corrected-Bias Percentile methods. Results The bifactor model comprising three specific factors, vis-à-vis the model composed of three correlated factors, had the best data fit (Δχ2/Δdf = 8.166 > 5, ΔNFI = .018, ΔNNFI = .015, and ΔCFI = .016 > .01), and all its fit indices were close; however, the specific factor related to positive affect had a poor contribution. Nevertheless, the model composed of three correlated factors had the greatest parsimony (PR = .853, PNFI = .804, PNNFI = .813, PCFI = .819, and PGFI = .706) and its three factors showed convergent validity, discriminant validity, and internal consistency reliability. Discussion and conclusion The two models with the best properties justify the use of a composite score of SWB based on the scores of positive affect, negative affect, and satisfaction with life, as well as scores for these three specific domains of content. From a psychometric perspective, the model composed of three correlated factors yielded the best result.

Resumen Introducción Hay una controversia en torno a la estructura del bienestar subjetivo (BS) y la posibilidad de calcular una puntuación total del BS. Objetivo Contrastar y comparar cinco modelos propuestos para el BS. Método El diseño del estudio fue ex-post-facto de corte transversal. Se usó un muestreo incidental. La Escala de Experiencias Positivas y Negativas y la Escala de Satisfacción con la Vida se aplicaron a una muestra compuesta por 600 estudiantes de ciencias de la salud de dos universidades de Nuevo León, México. Los datos se analizaron por modelamiento de ecuaciones estructurales, usando Máxima Verosimilitud y Percentiles Corregidos de Sesgo. Resultados El modelo bifactor de tres factores específicos tuvo, respecto del modelo compuesto por tres factores correlacionados, tuvo el mejor ajuste a los datos (Δχ2/Δdf = 8.166 > 5, ΔNFI = .018, ΔNNFI = .015 y ΔCFI = .016 > .01) y todos sus índices de ajuste fueron buenos; no obstante, el factor específico de afecto positivo tuvo una contribución pobre. Sin embargo, el modelo de tres factores correlacionados tuvo la mayor parsimonia (PR = .853, PNFI = .804, PNNFI = .813, PCFI = .819 y PGFI = .706) y sus tres factores mostraron validez convergente, validez discriminante y consistencia interna. Discusión y conclusión Los dos modelos con mejores propiedades justifican el uso de una puntuación compuesta de BS integrada por afecto positivo, afecto negativo y satisfacción con la vida, así como puntuaciones para estos tres dominios específicos de contenido. Desde la perspectiva psicométrica, el modelo de tres factores correlacionados proporcionó el mejor resultado.

Brief version of the coping health inventory for parents (CHIP) among family caregivers of children with chronic diseases.

BACKGROUND: The Coping Health Inventory for Parents (CHIP) has demonstrated good psychometric properties in several language forms and has been used to assess the coping behaviors of families facing disease. However, the CHIP has not been validated in Mexico among families of children with chronic conditions, where it could be useful for research and intervention. The objectives of this instrumental study were to obtain a version of the CHIP for the Spanish language in Mexico, establish the factor structure of the Mexican version of the CHIP, probe its internal consistency reliability, and assess its concurrent construct validity. METHODS: A nonprobability sample of 405 family caregivers of children with chronic diseases responded to a battery of measurement instruments that included the CHIP, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, and the Beck Depression Inventory. The sample was randomly divided into two parts. In one subsample (190 participants), an exploratory factor analysis was performed using a principal component analysis and oblique rotation. In the second subsample (215 participants), a confirmatory factor analysis was performed using maximum likelihood estimation. RESULTS: The scale was reduced to 16 items (CHIP-16) with factorial loads greater than .50. The empirical criteria used to determine the number of factors converged on the following five factors: belief and trust (McDonald ω = .85), spouse/partner relationship (ω = .79), home care (ω = .77), family involvement (ω = .75), and security/stability (ω = .79). The overall internal consistency was good (ω = .88). The five-factor model showed acceptable fit indices and high parsimony. The mean CHIP-16 scores and the Spouse/partner relationship scores among the caregivers with anxiety were greater than those among the caregivers without anxiety. The mean home-care scores among the women were greater than those among men. CONCLUSIONS: The 16-item version of the CHIP showed good internal consistency and construct validity; thus, the CHIP-16 is a useful instrument for measuring and assessing coping in family caregivers of children with chronic diseases.

Predictive Model of Clinical Attachment Loss and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life through Depressive Symptomatology, Oral Hygiene Habits, and Proinflammatory Biomarkers: A Pilot Study.

Subjective aspects such as oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) and depression are important aspects in the periodontal care. The objectives of the study were to test a predictive model of clinical attachment loss and OHRQoL in a pooled sample of dental patients with periodontitis and mental health patients with depressive symptomatology, and test the invariance of the model across both types of patients. Three self-report scales were applied to assess depression, OHRQoL and oral hygiene habits, saliva samples were collected for three proinflammatory biomarkers, and the clinical attachment loss was measured in 35 patients with periodontitis and 26 patients with depressive symptomatology. Data were analyzed through structural equation modeling. The one-group analysis revealed a psychosomatic complaint model of disagreement between the complaint and the clinically observable. In the multi-group analysis, the model was not invariant. It was necessary to introduce a singularity in relation to depressive symptomatology for each population. Thus, a good and equivalent fit was achieved between the six nested models in constraints, as well as equivalent parameters between both types of patients. The study of a dental population in conjunction with a mental health population with a psychosomatic risk factor reveals interesting and unexpected results.

A Sociodemographic variables questionnaire (Q-SV) for research on family caregivers of children with chronic disease.

BACKGROUND: Chronic diseases in childhood can affect the physical and mental health of patients and their families. The literature on pediatric chronic diseases has found important associations between the sociodemographic variables of children and their caregivers and negative health consequences in families. METHODS: In this study, we aimed to design and validate a questionnaire on sociodemographic variables that would be useful for research on pediatric chronic diseases; and investigate the relationship between sociodemographic variables and psychosocial variables among family caregivers. First, we created a questionnaire that consists of 20 demographic, medical, and family-related items based on a literature review and expert evaluations. This questionnaire was then validated by 335 expert reviewers in the field of Social Work, who work daily with the families of patients with chronic diseases in 10 National Institutes of Health of Mexico. The validation was based on three empirical criteria created specifically for this study, and the reviewers evaluated the usefulness, relevance, and permanence of the items. In a second cross-sectional, correlational and comparative study, a total of 446 family caregivers of children with chronic diseases were interviewed, and they completed the Sociodemographic Variables Questionnaire for research on family caregivers of children with chronic sociodemographic diseases and four psychosocial measurement instruments for evaluating anxiety, depression, caregiver burden and quality of life. RESULTS: Based on the results of the first study, we created the Sociodemographic Variables Questionnaire (Q-SV) for research on family caregivers of children with chronic diseases, and it includes 17 items that assess demographic, medical, and family characteristics. The results of the second study showed that the 17 sociodemographic variables obtained in the validation by expert judges are useful for measuring and evaluating the relationship between psychosocial variables in families of children with chronic diseases. CONCLUSIONS: Psychosocial and sociodemographic factors are relevant for the development of research processes for families that care for children with chronic diseases.

Psychometric properties of the Scale of Attitudes towards Pregnancy and Weight Gain in Mexican population / Propiedades psicométricas de la Escala de Actitudes hacia el Embarazo y el Aumento de Peso en población mexicana

Abstract Introduction Physical changes during pregnancy trigger a positive or negative emotional response to the body image of the future mother. Since this response can affect the health of the mother and the fetus, it is necessary to have valid instruments to evaluate body image in pregnant women. Objective To validate in Spanish the Scale of Attitudes towards Pregnancy and Weight Gain in Mexican population. Method The study was conducted in two phases: it was culturally adapted to determine the linguistic validity and then its psychometric properties were verified through confirmatory exploratory factor analysis. Results Participants included 520 pregnant women over 18 attending prenatal consultation, with a mean age of 23.56 ± 5.89 and with a mean of 33.20 ± 6.69 gestation weeks. The exploratory analysis defined five components that explain 56.04% of the total variance of the 18 items with acceptable internal consistency (α = 78). Factor analysis confirmed five factors (negative attitude towards the increase of gestational weight, positive body image, control of gestational weight, concern over gestational weight and restrictive behavior in response to gestational weight) with adequate fit indices (χ2/gl = 2.57, IFI = .90, CFI = .90, RMSEA = .05 (90% CI [.048, .062], p =.12), SRMR = .05) Discussion and conclusion The instrument has good psychometric properties and is recommended as a valid tool for assessing attitudes toward body image in Mexican women during the period of pregnancy.

Resumen Introducción Los cambios físicos del embarazo propician una respuesta emocional positiva o negativa hacia la imagen corporal de la futura madre. Como esta respuesta puede afectar tanto la salud de ella como la del producto, es necesario contar con instrumentos válidos para evaluar la imagen corporal en mujeres embarazadas. Objetivo Validar en español la Escala de Actitudes hacia el Embarazo y el Aumento de Peso en población mexicana. Método El estudio se llevó a cabo en dos fases: una adaptación transcultural para determinar la validez lingüística y después una verificación de las propiedades psicométricas por medio de un análisis factorial exploratorio y confirmatorio. Resultados Participaron 520 mujeres embarazadas mayores de 18 años que asistieron a consulta prenatal, con una media de edad de 23.56 ± 5.89 años y con un promedio de 33.20 ± 6.69 semanas de gestación. El análisis exploratorio definió cinco componentes que explican el 56.04% de la varianza total de los 18 reactivos y una consistencia interna aceptable (α = .78). El análisis factorial confirmó cinco factores (actitud negativa hacia el aumento del peso gestacional, imagen corporal positiva, control de peso gestacional, preocupación por el peso gestacional y conducta restrictiva hacia el peso gestacional) con índices de ajuste adecuados (χ2/gl = 2.57, IFI = .90, CFI = .90, RMSEA = .05 (IC 90% [.048, .062], p =.12), SRMR = .05). Discusión y conclusión El instrumento tiene buenas propiedades psicométricas y se recomienda como herramienta válida para evaluar las actitudes hacia la imagen corporal en mujeres mexicanas durante el periodo del embarazo.

Propiedades Psicométricas del Cuestionario de Motivos a Favor y en Contra de la Reconstrucción Mamaria / Psychometric Properties of the Questionnaire of Motives for and against Breast Reconstruction

Antecedentes: Aunque la reconstrucción mamaria (RM) tras la mastectomía es una opción estética con buenos resultados, se realiza poco en México. Para estudiar sus razones se creó el Cuestionario de Motivos a favor y en contra de la Reconstrucción Mamaria (CMRM). La de validez de contenido del CMRM ha sido comprobada, pero no otras propiedades psicométricas. Objetivos: determinar su estructura factorial y comprobar su fiabilidad y validez de constructo concurrente. Método: Este estudio instrumental con diseño no experimental de corte transversal usó un muestreo intencional. Se aplicó el CMRM integrado por dos escalas, un cuestionario de imagen corporal y preguntas sobre datos sociodemográficos, clínicos y conducta sexual a 110 mujeres mexicanas mastectomizadas. Resultados: La escala de motivos a favor de la RM del CMRM presentó una estructura unidimensional, consistencia interna excelente y validez convergente. La escala de motivos en contra de la RM presentó una estructura de tres factores: miedos/preocupaciones/costos, aceptación/satisfacción con el estado actual y falta de información. Sus tres factores presentaron consistencia interna y validez convergente y discriminante. La correlación entre ambas escalas fue pequeña, pero la consistencia interna del CMRM fue excelente. La fuerza de asociación del CMRM fue muy fuerte con deseo de RM, media con edad e imagen corporal y pequeña con deseo de conservar la mama, frecuencias de relaciones sexuales antes del diagnóstico, búsqueda de información sobre RM y percepción del estado económico. Fue independiente de escolaridad, etapa del cáncer, tipo de mastectomía y estado civil. Conclusión: el cuestionario es fiable y válido

Backgrounds: Although breast reconstruction (BR) after mastectomy is an aesthetic option with good results, it is done little in Mexico. To study its reasons, the Questionnaire of Motives for and against Breast Reconstruction (QMBR) was created. The content validity of the QMBR has been tested, but not other psychometric properties. The objectives of the study were to determine its factor structure, and to test its reliability and concurrent construct validity. This instrumental research with non-experimental cross-sectional design used an intentional sampling. The QMBR consisting of two scales,a body image questionnaire, and questions about sociodemographic, clinical and sexual behavior data were applied to 110 Mexican mastectomized women. The QMBR scale of motives for BR presented a one-factor structure, excellent internal consistency, and convergent validity. The QMBR scale of motives against BR presented a structure of three factors: fears/concerns/cost, acceptance/satisfaction with the current state, and lack of information. Its three factors showed internal consistency and convergent validity and discriminant. The correlation between both scales was small, but the internal consistency of QMBR was excellent. The strength of association of QMBR was very strong with desire for BR; medium with age and body image; and small with desire to preserve the breast, frequencies of sexual relations before diagnosis, search for information on BR, and perception of economic status. The QMBR was independent of levels of education, stage of cancer, type of mastectomy, and marital status.It is concluded that the questionnaire is reliable and valid

The measurement scale of resilience among family caregivers of children with cancer: a psychometric evaluation.

BACKGROUND: Resilience to disease is a process of positive adaptation despite the loss of health, it involves the development of vitality and skills to overcome the negative effects of adversity, risks, and vulnerability caused by disease. In Mexico, cancer is the leading cause of death in children. Both the diagnosis and the treatment of childhood cancer affect the health of family caregivers. However, resilience is a personality trait that can be protective in these situations. Therefore, resilience is an important psychological construct to measure, evaluate and develop in specific populations and contexts. In Mexico, a scale to assess this trait has been developed. This study aimed to test the reliability and factor structure of the Mexican Measurement Scale of Resilience (RESI-M), describe its distribution, evaluate its relationship with sociodemographic variables, and verify its concurrent validity with psychological well-being, depression, anxiety and parental stress and its independence from social desirability. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving an intentional nonprobability sample of 330 family caregivers of children with cancer hospitalized at the National Institute of Health in Mexico City. The participants responded to a sociodemographic variables questionnaire, the Mexican Measurement Scale of Resilience RESI-M, and five other assessment scales. RESULTS: Overall internal consistency was very high (ordinal alpha = .976). The confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated that the five-factor model had a close fit to the data: NFI = .970, CFI = .997, SRMR = .055, and RMSEA = .019. The distributions of the RESI-M total score followed a normal distribution. The RESI-M total score correlated positively with psychological well-being and negatively with depression, parental stress and anxiety. The overall RESI-M total score also correlated positively with age, but there was no difference in means between women and men. Resilience was independent of social desirability. CONCLUSIONS: The RESI-M shows reliability and construct validity in family caregivers of children with cancer and does not show a bias in relation to social desirability.