Translation and Cross Language Validation of Submissive Behavior Scale in Urdu Language

Abstract

This study aimed to translate the Submissive Behavior Scale (SBS) into Urdu and validate its psychometric properties within the Pakistani context. Conducted in three phases, Phase I involved translating the scale into Urdu by two psychologists and a bilingual expert, following Brislin's (1976) standard translation procedure, which included forward translation, item reconciliation, and back translation. In Phase II, cross-language validity was assessed with 30 adults (15 women and 15 men) aged 18-45 years, showing significant correlations between the original and translated versions, with coefficients ranging from .62 to .84. Phase III involved validating the translated scale with a larger sample of 200 adults (82 men and 118 women), revealing that the Urdu-translated SBS is empirically equivalent to the English version. Confirmatory factor analysis initially indicated a need for model improvement, with CFI = .71, TLI = .66, χ² = 198.78, p < .01, and RMSEA = .10. After applying modification indices, the final model showed improved fit indices: TLI = .90, CFI = .91, χ² = 118.22, p = .04, and RMSEA = .05, confirming an acceptable model fit. The test-retest reliability of the Urdu-translated scale was high, with internal consistency (α = .78) and test-retest reliability (r = .82). The results demonstrate that the Urdu version of the SBS is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing submissive behavior in Pakistani populations.