The COVID-19 Fear Scale (FCV-19S): Psychometric properties and invariance of the measure in the Spanish version

Abstract

Introduction. The emergence of COVID-19 worldwide has had serious consequences for physical and psychological health. Spain is one of the countries that has been most-seriously affected by the pandemic. This study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the COVID-19 fear scale (FCV-19S), assessing its structural validity, differential item functioning, and measurement invariance by gender and age. Methodology. A cross-sectional study was carried out in several stages. Descriptive, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, scale reliability, item differential functioning, and measurement invariance tests were carried out. Results. We obtained a single-factor scale with excellent goodness-of-fit indices and high internal consistency (α = .90; ω = .93) adapted to the general Spanish population. We also found a significant relationship with depression (r = .72) and anxiety (r = .84). Gender invariance testing indicated that men and women understood the scale items differently, with differences also being found by age group. Conclusions. This is the first study attempting to assess the gender and age invariance of the FCV-19S scale. The scale demonstrates adequate psychometric properties, high internal consistency, and an appropriate relationship with depression and anxiety. Men and women in the general Spanish population have different perceptions of the fear of infection by COVID-19, and the fear affects some age groups more than others.