The Perceived Concentration Level in Athletes Scale (PCLAS): A Validity and Reliability Study

This study aimed to develop a valid and reliable measurement tool specific to the sports context to measure the concentration levels perceived by athletes during training and competition. Qualitative and quantitative methods were combined in the scale development process. The qualitative stage involved focus group interviews, compositions written by the target audience, and content validity analyses via the lawshe technique. The quantitative stage applied assumption analyses, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), convergent-divergent validity, and composite reliability analyses. The scaling study was conducted through two independent samples. EFA was performed with data from 735 athletes, while CFA included 681 athletes. Factor analyses yielded a final scale form of 27 items with a 7-point Likert type. It consists of two factors: Focusing and maintaining attention (α=.97, ω=.92, n=11) and attentional control under pressure (α=.98, ω=.94, n=16). The two-factor structure explains 71.11% of the total variance. CFA results indicated that the model provided an acceptable level of fit (χ²/df=4.46; RMSEA=.080; SRMR=.023; CFI=.99). Convergent validity criteria were met. Composite reliability and omega coefficients revealed that the scale possesses a high level of internal consistency. The findings show that the Perceived Concentration Level in Athletes Scale (PCLAS) is a valid and reliable measurement tool suitable for use in the field of sports psychology.