Turkish adaptation of the binge eating disorder scale: Validity and reliability study

This study was conducted to adapt the "Binge Eating Disorder Scale", a brief and validated instrument for assessing binge eating risk behaviors, into Turkish and to examine its validity and reliability in adolescents. The research was carried out between January and June 2025 with 163 students aged 14–18 years, residing in Konya and studying at Yunak Anatolian Imam Hatip High School, Yunak Anatolian High School, and Selçuklu Science High School during the 2024–2025 academic year. In order to measure the invariance of the scale against time, 100 students were re-tested approximately 2 weeks after the first application. Data were collected using a sociodemographic data form, a 24-hour dietary recall, and the Binge Eating Disorder Scale. For construct validity, confirmatory factor analysis and known-groups validity were performed. According to confirmatory factor analysis results, all standardized factor loadings were significant (p<0,001), and all fit indices indicated a good model fit. In known-groups validity, the total scale score was significantly higher among adolescents with binge eating episodes compared to those without, with a large effect size (Cohen's d=1.41). Reliability analysis demonstrated strong internal consistency, with a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0,867. The intraclass correlation coefficient for the total scale score was 0,838. No significant associations were found between the total scale score and energy or macronutrient intake; however, a weak, positive, and significant correlation was observed with Body Mass Index (r=0,229, p=0,006). Female students had significantly lower intakes of energy, protein, fat, and micronutrients compared to males (p<0,05). The Turkish adaptation of the Binge Eating Disorder Scale is a valid and reliable measurement tool for adolescents. This six-item scale provides a practical and reliable instrument for assessing binge eating risk behaviors in this population.