Design and psychometric validation of the PsySoc-CAFO scale for measuring psychosocial factors in physical activity interventions for breast cancer

Background The primary aim of this study is to develop and validate a scale assessing the psychological and social well-being associated with participation in a professionally led physical activity group for breast cancer patients (PsySoc-CAFO). Furthermore, the study seeks to explore its relationship with personal and social variables.Method A total of 142 women diagnosed with breast cancer and engaged in these groups participated in this study. Descriptive statistics, confirmatory factor analysis, reliability indices, and correlations were conducted.Results Confirmatory factor analysis revealed a structure comprising four first-order factors and a second-order factor: Psychoemotional state; Self-esteem for belonging; Peer support; Motivation/Empowerment. The model demonstrated good fit indices (χ2/df = 1.61, RMSEA = 0.032, CFI = 0.912, TLI = 0.904, SRMR = 0.052). The overall reliability of the test was satisfactory (α = .864, ω = .864).Conclusions The PsySoc-CAFO scale proves to be a valid and reliable tool for objectively assessing the psychosocial benefits associated with group participation of this nature. Utilization of this scale can facilitate comprehension of the mental health advantages conferred upon patients by such activities, and allow for the correlation of psychosocial benefits with physical ones.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06275321.