Validity and Reliability of the Korean Version of the Index of Dental Anxiety and Fear / 치위생과학회지

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to investigate the validity and reliability of the Korean version of a tool used to measure dental anxiety and fear. The Index of Dental Anxiety and Fear (IDAF-4C+) was translated into Korean, and modified and revised to adapt to Korean culture. A survey was conducted among 457 patients in a dental clinic. The validity and reliability were determined using PASW Statistics ver. 18.0 and IBM SPSS AMOS ver. 21.0. Factor analysis showed that Korean version of IDAF-4C+ was composed of three elements dental anxiety, dental phobia, feared stimulus. The validity of the model was examined by confirmatory factor analysis and satisfied relevant requirements. All elements had convergent validity and discriminant validity exceeding requirements to ensure validity. Cronbach's α showed good reliability. In conclusion, the findings of this study demonstrate that the Korean version of IDAF-4C+ has high validity and reliability. Furthermore, it can be used in clinical practice and research to decrease dental anxiety and fear.