The MRI Self-Efficacy Scale for Children: Development and Preliminary Psychometrics

Objective  Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a common procedure that can be distressing for children. Although not yet studied in the context of pediatric medical procedures, self-efficacy may be a good predictor of procedural stress and a clinically feasible target for behavioral intervention. The objectives of this study were to develop the MRI Self-Efficacy Scale for Children (MRI-SEC) and assess the preliminary psychometric properties. Methods  Development of the MRI-SEC was informed by literature searches and feedback from healthcare providers. Twenty child–parent dyads naïve to MRI and 10 child–parent dyads with MRI experience completed the MRI-SEC to assess the comprehensibility and ease of use, and to inform item and scale refinement. The final version includes four practice items and 12 items directly assessing MRI self-efficacy. To evaluate the psychometric properties, 127 children (ages 6–12) and parents naïve to MRI completed the MRI-SEC, and a series of measures to assess construct validity. To evaluate test–retest reliability 27 children completed the MRI-SEC a second time. Results  The MRI-SEC demonstrated acceptable internal consistency, test–retest reliability, and convergent validity. Conclusion  Development of the MRI-SEC provides an opportunity to better understand the role of self-efficacy as a predictor of procedural stress and cooperation with MRI, informing reliable prediction of children who may benefit from additional support for MRI and the development of tailored behavioral interventions.