Psychometric Validation of the Revised Physical Self-Perception Profile: An Italian Context Study

Background: The Physical Self has been defined as the set of perceptual, descriptive, and evaluative aspects that each person uses to describe his or her physical domains. The Revised Physical Self-Perception Profile questionnaire (PSPP-R) is a self-reported measure of physical self- concept domains, including a Perceived Importance Profile questionnaire that assesses the subjective importance assigned to physical domains. Although the PSPP-R has been validated in several countries, it has not been validated in the Italian context. The present study aimed to test the psychometric properties of the Italian version of the PSPP-R with the PIP in order to provide, for the Italian context, a comprehensive instrument for understanding the development of the Physical Self and global self-esteem dimensions. Methods: The factor structure, internal consistency, temporal stability, and criterion validity of the Italian version of the PSPP-R were examined in two independent samples of Italian students (n = 911; 348 males and 563 females) aged 15–20 years attending secondary school. Results: The results demonstrated the validity and reliability of the Italian version of the PSPP- R, as well as its hierarchical structures. Conclusions: In psychological and educational settings, the Italian version of the PSPP-R can be used to examine the physical self-concept of Italian adolescents and young adults, allowing for the exploration of the interplay of competence and importance in physical domains.