Psychometric Evaluation and Normative Validation of the Beliefs and Attitudes Toward Transgenderism Scale in an Iranian Population
Objective: This study aimed to translate, adapt, and psychometrically validate the Beliefs and Attitudes Toward Transgenderism Scale in an Iranian population. The instrument offers a more comprehensive conceptualization of attitudes toward transgender people than earlier measures.
Methods: A methodological cross-sectional study was conducted in 2025 in Tehran. The study population consisted of adults from different districts of the city, recruited through community centers and universities. A total of 238 participants completed the Persian version of the scale, which contains 33 items across three subscales: Interpersonal Comfort (16 items), Sexual/Gender Beliefs (11 items), and Human Value (6 items). Translation and cultural adaptation followed forward–backward procedures. Internal consistency was examined using Cronbach’s alpha, while construct validity was assessed via confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Convergent validity was tested using the Individual Transgender Attitudes Scale and the Genderism and Transphobia Scale. Discriminant validity was evaluated against the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and the Marlowe–Crowne Social Desirability Scale–Short Form.
Findings: Cronbach’s alpha coefficients indicated excellent internal consistency (α = 0.97 for Interpersonal Comfort, α = 0.95 for Sexual/Gender Beliefs, and α = 0.94 for Human Value). CFA confirmed the original three-factor structure with acceptable fit indices. Strong correlations with related constructs demonstrated convergent validity, whereas weak links with unrelated measures confirmed discriminant validity.
Conclusion: The Persian version of the Beliefs and Attitudes Toward Transgenderism Scale demonstrates strong reliability and validity for use in Tehran. This tool can support research, clinical practice, and social policy by providing a standardized measure of attitudes toward transgender issues.
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