Validation of the greek version of the body image-acceptance and action questionnaire

The present study aimed to examine the psychometric properties and factorial structure of the Greek version of the Body Image-Acceptance and Action Questionnaire (BI-AAQ). The BI-AAQ assesses cognitive flexibility and acceptance relative to body image. Two samples: an all female middle and high school sample (N = 85; Age M = 17.97, SD = 2.74) and a college student sample (N = 240; Age M = 21.50; SD = 2.98) in Cyprus completed a set of self-reported eating-related questionnaires. Reliability analysis showed that the Greek BI-AAQ has high internal consistency and good item-total correlations. Principal Component Analysis (Sample 1) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (Sample 2) supported a one-factor solution, as in the case of the original BI-AAQ. Hierarchical multiple regression predicting eating disorder behaviors (as assessed by the EDE-Q) from Weight Concerns (WCS) and BI-AAQ scores after controlling for BMI, produced a significant model, which accounted for 67% of variance. The BI-AAQ remained a significant predictor of eating disorder behaviors after controlling for BMI and weight concerns scores. The Greek version of the BI-AAQ questionnaire is thus a robust and reliable instrument. It adds to previous knowledge and research on the role of psychological flexibility and acceptance of body image in eating disorder behaviours and psychological difficulties. peerReviewed publishedVersion