An open-access digital repository of self-regulation measures for health behaviors

Background: use of valid culturally-appropriate instruments assessing psychosocial factors related to health behavior change (HBC) ensures high standards in measurement procedures. However, researchers must have easy open access to these measures. To address this need we built an open-access digital Repository of measures of self-regulation for physical activity, eating behavior, weight control. Methods: Eligible instruments identified through several sources (e.g. international repositories, research teams). Instruments categorized according to the construct(s) and behavior(s) assessed. For each instrument, we extracted information on the construct(s), mode of administration, scoring, validation procedures, psychometric properties. Additional psychometric analyses conducted whenever necessary. Results: Forty questionnaires were identified, 15 of which validated to the Portuguese population. Detailed descriptions and Portuguese versions of the measures made available in the digital Repository. The Repository is regularly updated with new instruments additional data to the existing ones. It also contains a glossary of psychometric theoretical construct(s) terms. Discussion: This open access digital Repository is a valuable resource to enhance the quality of HBC research practice.