Psychometric Properties of the French Version of the Pictorial Scale of Physical Self-Concept for Younger Children (P-PSC-C)

The objective of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of a French version of the Pictorial scale of Physical Self-Concept for younger Children (P-PSC-C). A sample of 216 French-speaking Canadian children (aged 5-12 years) participated in this study. Results supported the validity and reliability of the a priori single factor structure of the P-PSC-C. Subsequent analyses also supported the partial weak, strong, and strict invariance of this a priori measurement model as a function of children's sex, and revealed latent mean differences showing that boys tended to present higher scores on the P-PSC-C compared to girls. The results also revealed a lack of latent mean differences as a function of age, body mass index (BMI), and physical activity/sport involvement. They also revealed evidence of differential item functioning (DIF) as a function of age and BMI (but not physical activity/sport involvement), showing that: (a) older children tended to score lower on the endurance, flexibility, and physical appearance items relative to younger children and (b) children with a higher BMI tended to score lower on the endurance item relative to children with a lower BMI. Finally, analyses of convergent validity revealed that the scores on the global P-PSC-C factor were significantly and positively related to enjoyment in sports. Public Significance Statement The French version of the Pictorial scale of Physical Self-Concept for younger Children (P-PSC-C) has acceptable psychometric properties and can be confidently used in research or practice to assess children's global physical self-conception. The P-PSC-C can be used in the context of group-based comparisons as functions of age, body mass index, physical activity/sport involvement, and sex.