Validation of the Korean Version of the Coronavirus Reassurance-Seeking Behaviors Scale During the COVID-19 Pandemic

OBJECTIVE: In this study, we aimed to develop a Korean version of the Coronavirus Reassurance-Seeking Behaviors Scale (CRBS) and to explore its reliability and validity among the general population in South Korea. METHODS: Using an online survey conducted during November 9–15, 2021, we collected the demographic data of 400 individuals and their responses to rating scales such as the CRBS, the Stress and Anxiety to Viral Epidemics-6 items (SAVE-6), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 items (GAD-7), and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 items (PHQ-9). We conducted factor analyses and utilized item response theory to confirm the validity and reliability of the Korean version of the CRBS. RESULTS: Factor analyses revealed that the single factor model of the Korean version of the CRBS showed a good fit with the CRBS (χ(2)=5.475, df=5, p value=0.361, χ(2)/df=1.095, CFI=0.999, TLI=0.998, RMSEA=0.015). Multigroup CFA results indicated that the CRBS measures reassurance-seeking behaviors consistently across variables of sex, depression, general anxiety, and viral anxiety. The CRBS also exhibited good convergent validity with the SAVE-6 (r=0.431, p<0.001), GAD-7 (r=0.574, p<0.001), and PHQ-9 (r=0.575, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The CRBS is a reliable and valid rating scale that measures reassurance-seeking behavior in relation to viral epidemics.