Development and Validation of an HIV/AIDS Empowerment Scale for Impact Intervention Evaluation. An Example from the MAKASI Intervention

Background: The MAKASI intervention aimed to empower sub-Saharan immigrants living in the Paris metropolitan area regarding sexual health and reduce their HIV exposure. The intervention was developed based upon a theoretical model of individual empowerment. Purpose: A scale was developed using sixteen 4-point Likert items adapted from existing tools to measure HIV/AIDS empowerment as an intervention outcome. This study describes the psychometric validation of this scale. Methods: Data from 433 participants were used. Construct validity and internal consistency were assessed using factor analysis and Cronbach's alpha coefficient (alpha). The scale's predictive validity for health and social outcomes was assessed using bivariable logistic regressions. Results: Five dimensions were identified: i) sexual communication; ii) perceived control at the individual level; iii) knowledge of HIV treatment and social resources; iv) ability to find and understand healthcare information; and v) ability to understand and use disease prevention messages. The internal consistency (alpha = 0.71) and predictive validity (p < .05) were satisfactory. Discussion: The scale was relevant with respect to the target population characteristics and the intervention aims.