Breastfeeding knowledge and attitude scale: Arabic version.

Background. It is important for researchers who borrow instruments for use in different cultures and countries to ensure that these are tested for acceptability and practicality, as well as linguistic/literal equivalence, using a robust and transparent framework. The WHO (2005) created a framework to guide researchers from different cultures in how to translate an instrument from one language to another. Aim. The purpose of this paper is to describe such a process of translation and adaptation, using the WHO (2005) guidelines, when translating the English version of the breastfeeding knowledge and attitude scale into an Arabic version for use in Jordan. Methods. The authors adapted the Breastfeeding Knowledge and Attitude Scale (Tarrent and Dodgson, 2007). Ethical approval and access to undergraduate students was obtained from the Jordan University of Science and Technology. A convenience sample of 40 undergraduate female students was recruited from the University between June and July 2015 to undertake the pilot study testing the clarity and easiness of the questions. The researchers followed the WHO (2005) guidelines throughout the process of translation and adaptation of the research instruments. Findings. The students found the survey to be suitable and appropriate. The reliability of the Arabic version of the instrument was established in terms of acceptable Cronbach's alpha values, which is consistent with the original English version. Conclusion. Conceptual and cultural differences are important factors for consideration when using borrowed instruments, regardless of their proven reliability and validity. The process of adaptation and testing of instruments, as suggested by the WHO (2005), has enhanced the transferability and rigour of the breastfeeding knowledge and attitude scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]