Examination of factor structure of the cognitive representations of hypertension scale for ethnic equivalence.

The major purpose of this analysis was to examine the factor structure of separate interpretive dimensions of the Cognitive Representation of Hypertension Scales (CRHTN) for ethnic equivalence. The CRHTN is a theoretically derived measurement of individualized experience of hypertension assessed along three cognitive interpretive dimensions: perceptions, preferences and possibilities. The sample for this study was recruited from a university-based hypertension clinic, a Veterans Administration ambulatory service, and a large urban-based HMO. Analysis of data through confirmatory factor analysis techniques across both samples provided evidence for construct validity of a five-factor model along three dimensions: perceptions, preferences and possibilities. However, multigroup analyses suggest the model may not equally describe cognitive representations of hypertension for different ethnic groups. Differences in fit of the theoretical model to data from two different ethnic groups is discussed. Findings from this study provide a basis for development of culturally sensitive and appropriate cognitive strengthening strategies to influence behavioral outcomes for hypertension management.