Development and preliminary validation of the Multidimensional Disgust Scale

Abstract

In this study we developed a 30-item multidimensional scale of disgust (Escala Multidimensional de Sensibilidad al Asco, EMA) based on two Spanish samples (N = 1,610). The initial pool of 92 items was generated according to our previous results on the domains in which people experience disgust (Sandín et al., 2013). Exploratory factor analysis of selected items based on a calibration sample (n = 580) indicated the presence of six factors related to hygiene, morality, sexuality, body envelope violations, small-animals and deterioration/disease. Validity of the 6-factor structure was supported by confirmatory factor analysis of a replication sample (n = 1,030). Estimates of reliability (internal consistency and test-retest) were adequate for the six subscales. The EMA was also correlated with other measures of disgust and emotions, providing evidence of convergent and discriminant validity of this new scale of disgust.