Factorial validity of the Chinese version of the COVID Stress Scales

The COVID Stress Scales (CSS) are instruments for assessing COVID-19-related stress. The CSS consist of 36 items measuring six dimensions, including danger, socioeconomic consequences, xenophobia, contamination, traumatic stress, and compulsive checking. Although the CSS have been validated in several cultures, their psychometric properties have not been investigated in the Chinese population. The purpose of this study is to examine the factorial validity of the Chinese version of the CSS. A total of 608 Chinese undergraduate students (392 female and 216 male) in Hong Kong aged from 18 to 25 (M = 20.29, SD = 1.53) participated in this study. Data collection was carried out through the use of an online questionnaire. The results of an exploratory factor analysis indicated a six-factor solution. Moreover, the results of a confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated an adequate model fit for the hypothesized six-factor structure. Furthermore, the results of multiple-group confirmatory factor analyses established the factorial invariance of the six-factor model across gender. The six subscales demonstrated satisfactory internal consistency reliability. The findings of this study provide preliminary evidence for the factorial validity of the Chinese version of the CSS. The scales are promising instruments for assessing pandemic-related stress experienced by Chinese people in the current COVID-19 pandemic and future pandemics.