Psychometric properties of problematic exercise measures: a systematic review

The present study summarized, compared, and critically appraised the methodological quality of the most used self-report measures assessing problematic exercise (PE) (i.e. CES, CET, EAI, EDQ, EDS, OEQ). A pre-registered systematic review was conducted in accordance with the 2018 COSMIN criteria and PRISMA methodology. Six electronic databases were searched for studies developing, validating and/or testing the psychometric properties of the psychometric instruments. Data from 48 studies comprising the six original instruments and their eight modified versions were included. The methodological quality (risk-bias) of the development studies of all 14 instruments was rated as ‘inadequate’. Limited evidence base in support of most of the measurement properties under examination was found, with the most relevant being that concerning content validity. Findings call into question (i) the accuracy and usefulness of the body of evidence obtained by employing these instruments, and (ii) the advisability of persisting with its use, at least until the issues identified in the present study have been adequately addressed. Obtaining further evidence on the measurement properties of existing self-report PE instruments as well as providing them in early stages of development for those to be proposed in the future should be a priority for research in this field.