Scientific Reports (May 2024)

Development and initial validation of a new self-report measure to assess perceived dependence on tobacco and nicotine products

  • Esther F. Afolalu,
  • Thomas Salzberger,
  • Linda Abetz-Webb,
  • Stefan Cano,
  • Rolf Weitkunat,
  • Jed E. Rose,
  • Christelle Chrea

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-60790-4
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 14, no. 1
pp. 1 – 13

Abstract

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Abstract How nicotine is administered has evolved from cigarettes to various delivery systems. Assessing perceived dependence on nicotine-containing products now requires accounting for product specificity while allowing comparisons across products and users. This study aims to develop a new self-report measure to assess perceived dependence on tobacco and nicotine products (TNPs) among exclusive and poly-TNP users. A draft version of the new measure, the ABOUT-Dependence, was constructed based on literature review, qualitative research, and expert opinion. Data for scale formation and psychometric assessment was obtained through a US-based web survey (n = 2334) that included additional dependence measures for convergent validity assessment. Qualitative research confirmed a preliminary conceptual framework with seven sub-concepts. Following a cognitive debriefing, 19 items were considered to best represent the different sub-concepts. Psychometric findings supported a three-domain structure [i.e., behavioral impact (five items), signs and symptoms (five items), and extent/timing of use (two items)] and an overall total composite score. The data confirmed convergent and known-group validity, as well as test–retest reliability. The ABOUT-Dependence is a 12-item, psychometrically sound, self-report measure that may be used as a tool for research and further understanding of perceived dependence across the spectrum of TNP and TNP users.