Herpes Knowledge Scale – HKS
Assesses general knowledge about genital herpes, including causes, symptoms, transmission, recurrences, and complications.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Herpes Knowledge Scale – HKS was developed by Katherine Bruce, Judith McLaughlin (1986). It is designed to measure Genital Herpes Knowledge. The scale is intended for use with College students and adults.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 54 items.
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: T = True, F = False, DK = Don't Know.
The scale includes 27 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Items are summed to produce a total score.
Total scores range from 0 to 100. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low Knowledge: 0 – 59
- Moderate Knowledge: 60 – 79
- High Knowledge: 80 – 100
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of Cronbach's alpha = .88.
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.