Adaptation and validation of the Lithuanian-language version of the Performance Enhancement Attitude Scale (PEAS)

ENProblem Statement: Research evidence suggests athletes’ attitudes toward doping may be a strong predictor of doping behaviour. Therefore, it is important to assess attitudes and facilitate cross-cultural comparisons using validated instruments. Aim: The aim of this study was to adapt and validate the Lithuanian version of the Performance Enhancement Attitude Scale (PEAS). Material and Methods: Research participants were 205 university students (142 males and 63 females) in sports sciences. Adaptation of the PEAS in Lithuanian was conducted through forward/backward translation. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed to assess the scale’s structure, and Cronbach’s alpha was applied to measure the internal consistency. Pearson’s correlation was used to assess the relationship among the PEAS and intention to dope and attitudes toward fair play in sport as evidence of convergent validity. Results: The study results did not prove a one-dimensional structure of the 17-item PEAS scale. A two-factor 11-item structure was established by confirmatory factor analysis. The scale showed good acceptable levels of internal consistency. As expected, athletes with less positive attitudes toward doping were less likely to use doping and had more positive attitudes toward fair play in sport. It was found that female athletes had significantly less positive attitudes toward doping than males. Comparing attitudes toward doping in relation to competitive level, a significant difference was not found. Limitations of the study and further research perspectives are also discussed. Conclusion: The study results indicate the 11-item scale is a valid and reliable instrument and should be used with Lithuanian-speaking athletes. Keywords: banned performance-enhancing drugs, attitudes, Lithuanian adaptation, factor analysis, convergent validity. [From the publication]

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