The Experienced Coercion Scale: Translation, Validation, and Evaluation of Psychometric Properties of a French-Language Version

Introduction: Perceived coercion refers to the subjective experience of coercion by individuals receiving mental healthcare. It has been shown to compromise their recovery process. The Experienced Coercion Scale (ECS) is a validated instrument designed to assess perceived coercion in mental health settings. Objectives: This study aimed to translate, adapt, and evaluate the psychometric properties of a French-language version of the ECS among a sample of psychiatric inpatients from general and forensic settings in Quebec (Canada). Method: A cross-sectional design was employed for this study. It was conducted across 7 general hospitals and specialized mental health institutions in Quebec, with a sample of 192 patients. Construct validity was assessed using exploratory factor analysis. Internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha (α) and McDonald’s omega (ω). Convergent validity was measured using a correlation matrix between scores on the Échelle de la coercition perçue (ECS-FR) and the French-language version of the Violence Prevention Climate scale (VPC-M-FR). Results: The ECS-FR consists of 15 items across 2 subscales: (1) Restriction of Freedom, and (2) Dehumanization. The instrument demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.93 and McDonald’s omega =0.93). Convergent validity was supported by a significant negative association between ECS-FR and VPC-M-FR scores (r = -0.63, p < 0.001), indicating that a higher perceived violence prevention climate was associated with lower levels of perceived coercion. Discussion and Conclusion: The ECS-FR shows good psychometric properties. Its use across various inpatient mental health settings paves the way for further exploration of the factors underlying perceived coercion.