Introduction

The Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10) is a cornerstone in measuring stress. Despite the solid psychometric properties of some translated versions of the PSS-10 and their successful application in various groups, a review of several studies revealed a shortcoming in the use of non-standardized methodology.

Objective

This study aimed to systematically review the psychometric properties of the non-English versions of the PSS-10.

Methods

The investigators identified 20 quantitative articles from various databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, OVID, and CINAHL, guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Each article had undergone a comprehensive validity and reliability evaluation using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation. Internal consistency was adequate in 11 studies (α ≥ 0.8), acceptable in eight (α ≥ 0.7), and questionable in one (α ≥ 0.6). All analyzed studies were observational. Most studies employed a cross-sectional design (n = 17) with a longitudinal component (test–retest n = 11). Some studies employed retrospective (n = 1) and prospective cohort (n = 2) designs. The two-factor construct validity was confirmed by exploratory (n = 11) and confirmatory factor analysis (n = 7).

Discussion

The focus was on the homogeneity of the items within the translated scale of different languages. However, the reported internal consistency and construct validity of the translated PSS-10 varied based on participant characteristics, language, culture, disease population, gender, and sample size.

Conclusion

A standardized approach to psychometric methodology would enable other researchers to develop the reliability and the validity of the translated PSS-10 across diverse populations and cultures in a defined and accurate manner.

Search results

A Systematic Review of the Non-English Versions of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS)-10 Psychometric Analysis