Scale Overview
The Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire – Restraint Scale (DEBQ-RS) was developed by van Strien, T., Frijters, J.E., Bergers, G.P., & Defares, P.B. (1986). It is designed to measure Restrained eating. The scale is intended for use with Adults and adolescents.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 10 items.
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 1 = Never, 2 = Seldom, 3 = Sometimes, 4 = Often, 5 = Always.
Scoring
Item scores are averaged to produce a mean score.
Total scores range from 1 to 5. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low Restrained Eating: 1 – 2
- Moderate Restrained Eating: 2 – 4
- High Restrained Eating: 4 – 5
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.90.
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.