This study validated a Japanese version of the Positive Eating Scale (PES-J) and examined its construct and predictive validity regarding subjective health. The PES, which included two subscales—Satisfaction with Eating (PES-J-Sat) and Pleasure when Eating (PES-J-Pl)—was translated into Japanese and investigated in two survey studies. Study 1 assessed the PES-J’s factor structure, reliability, and measurement invariance across gender and age (N = 972). Study 2 examined its construct and predictive validity by analyzing associations with eating behaviors (assessed via the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire), healthy eating, subjective health, life satisfaction, and body mass index (N = 699). Factor analysis supported a two-factor structure consistent with that of the original scale. Furthermore, scalar measurement invariance indicated that the comparisons across age and gender were valid. The PES-J was positively associated with healthy eating, subjective health, and life satisfaction, particularly satisfaction with eating habits. Thus, it is a reliable and valid measure for assessing positive eating behaviors in Japan.
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