Psychometric properties and cross-cultural adaptation of the Indonesian version of the Brief COPE in a sample of advanced cancer patients

The Brief COPE Inventory has been proven as acceptable psychometric properties to examine coping strategies among cancer patients. However, most psychometric testing studies have been carried out in Western countries, raising concerns about the properties’ relevance and applicability in other cultural contexts. This study aimed to present psychometric properties of the Brief COPE in a sample of patients with advanced cancer in Indonesia. Specifically, we intended to examine the factorial structure and the measure’s validity and reliability. This study included 440 patients from the original study who completed the Indonesian version of Brief COPE. We used exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis to assess factor structure and evaluate the structural model fit, respectively. Reliability was demonstrated by internal consistency represented by Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. The factor analysis identified a 21-items scale with 5-factors (avoidance, religion and acceptance, social support coping, problem solving and distraction). Confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated a good model fit. For the whole scale and its subscales Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were acceptable signifying good reliability. Convergent, divergent validity and contrast group comparison were evidenced by significant correlations among subscales and the other instruments used. This study shows that the Indonesian version of Brief COPE is a reliable and valid instrument to measure coping in advanced cancer patients and is ready for use amongst this population in the Indonesian cultural context.