| Abstract: | In this study we evaluated the psychometric properties of the Structured Clinical Interview for the Anorexic‐Bulimic Spectrum (SCI‐ABS), including internal consistency, concurrent validity, discriminant validity and test–retest reliability. We also determine acceptability and feasibility of administration of the interview. The SCI‐ABS was designed to assess typical and atypical symptoms, behaviours and temperament traits pertaining to eating disorders. The interview included 134 items grouped into nine domains, four of which were divided into subdomains. Data were collected from 372 subjects: 55 psychiatric patients with any eating disorder according to DSM‐IV criteria, 118 university students, 141 subjects working out in a gym, and 65 obstetrical patients. Concurrent validity of the instrument was assessed against the Eating Attitude Test (EAT) and the Eating Disorder Inventory (EDI). Thirty‐five subjects were also recruited to study the test–retest reliability and 25 women with any eating disorder were administered both the self‐report and the interview formats of the SCI‐ABS. Internal consistency of domains and subdomains was good. Mean domain and subdomain scores were significantly higher in patients with eating disorders, supporting the discriminant validity of the instrument. Correlation with EAT and EDI indicated good concurrent validity. Test–retest reliability was excellent and the agreement between the interview and self‐report formats was satisfactory. Copyright © 2000 Whurr Publishers Ltd. |
