Psychometric Validation of the Chinese Health Questionnaire Among Young People in Hong Kong Across 2018 and 2019

Abstract

The Chinese Health Questionnaire (CHQ) is a 12-item assessment tool of psychological distress. The present study systematically evaluated the psychometric properties of the CHQ in a large sample of 1968 young people in Hong Kong. The participants completed the CHQ online in 2018 and 869 of them completed a follow-up survey on the CHQ, suicidal ideation, hikikomori, and help-seeking in 2019. Dimensionality of the CHQ was assessed via confirmatory factor analysis using the robust weighted least square estimator in 2018 and 2019. Measurement invariance was investigated across gender, age groups, and time between 2018 and 2019. Convergent validity of the CHQ factors were evaluated with respect to the mental health outcomes in the multiple indicators and multiple causes (MIMIC) approach. Confirmatory factor analyses shortened the CHQ into 10 items and revealed a superior fit for the bifactor model with a general factor and two specific factors on somatic and depressive symptoms in both 2018 and 2019. The general factor demonstrated substantial factor loadings (λ = 0.58–0.91), good reliability (ΩH = 0.85), and temporal stability (r = 0.62), and scalar measurement invariance across gender, age groups, and time. The general factor was significantly and positively associated with suicidal ideation, hikikomori, and helpseeking. The two specific factors displayed lower factor loadings, reliability, temporal stability, and weaker associations with the mental health outcomes. The present findings lend support to a valid and stable bifactor structure with a strong general factor for the CHQ-10 among young people in Hong Kong.