Abstract:

The aim of this study is to develop a scale to determine the fear effects of epidemics and similar disasters such as covid-19. The study was conducted with 1309 (EFA) and 735 (CFA) participants. Internet-based method was used to collect data. "Pandemic Fear Scale (PAFES)", prepared by the researcher, has been used as a means of data collection. The scale consists of 5 subscales and 25 Likert style items. Study 1: Varimax rotated EFA (exploratory factor analysis) was used as scale development statistics to ascertain sub-dimensions. Item-total correlation coefficient and item-remainder correlation coefficient, Cronbach and Rulon coefficient were calculated to determine the reliability. Study 2: After the scale was structured with EFA (exploratory factor analysis) and item analysis, the construct validity was tested with CFA (Confirmatory Factor Analysis). CFI (Comparative Fit Index) and RMSEA (Root Mean Square Error of Approximation) fit indices were used to test the CFA model's suitability. Considering these criteria, CFA models were created for scales. The scale was found to be valid, reliable and available as a result of statistical procedures.

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