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Multistudy Report

The 5-Factor Disgust Scale

Development and Validation of a Comprehensive Measure of Disgust Propensity

Published Online:April 07, 2017https://doi.org/10.1027/1015-5759/a000401

Abstract

Abstract. For years, disgust was conceptualized as a disease-avoidance mechanism. However, research shows that socio-moral or sexual transgressions elicit disgust, too. Until now, no German-language disgust scale has covered all disgust factors discussed in the literature. Here we present an economic Five-Factor Disgust Scale (5-FES; Fünf-Faktoren Ekelskala) along with empirical evidence from three studies corroborating its reliability and validity. Two well-established disgust questionnaires were combined and extended with other disgust-relevant items. Using item reduction and exploratory factor analysis, death-related, moral, food-related, sexual, and pathogen disgust emerged as distinct factors (Study 1: N = 456). Confirmatory factor analysis with two large samples (Study 2: N = 997 and N = 405) demonstrated a good fit of the correlated five-factor solution. The 5-FES correlated weakly with neuroticism, anxiety, and social desirability. A high negative correlation between sexual disgust and sexual openness emerged. Criterion validity was shown using self-reported behaviors (Study 3: N = 203). With food-related disgust comprising items about non-spoiled but exotic foods, a new disgust domain emerged. Results indicate that the 5-FES is a comprehensive and psychometrically sound German-language instrument for the differentiated assessment of disgust propensity.

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