ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of the competence scale in managing behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia for care workers. A methodological study design was used. Data were collected from 180 care workers in long-term care facilities between December 1 and December 26, 2022. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to examine the dimensionality of the scale and support construct validity. Construct validity was assessed through convergent and discriminant validity. Concurrent validity was evaluated using correlations with dementia attitudes, self-efficacy and caregiver burden scales. Internal consistency tests were performed to assess reliability. The confirmatory factor analysis showed reasonable model fit indices. Evidence for convergent validity was supported by satisfactory standardised factor loadings, average variance extracted values and composite reliability values, except for one item. Discriminant validity was demonstrated between all constructs. Concurrent validity showed strong positive correlations with dementia attitudes and self-efficacy scales and a negative correlation with caregiver burden. The instrument exhibited strong validity, high reliability and reasonable model fit. The results provide initial psychometric support for the competence scale in managing behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia among care workers with basic dementia care training.