Development and Initial Validity Evidence for the Height Dissatisfaction Scale

Height dissatisfaction is an under-recognized dimension of body image concern that may have unique psychological correlates. Existing measures, such as the Male Body Attitudes Scale (MBAS) and the Negative Physical Self Scale-Shortness subscale (NPSS-S), are limited by gender specificity, unidirectional assumptions (i.e., desiring greater height), and a lack of items addressing sociocultural influences. Our study aimed to develop and provide validity evidence for the Height Dissatisfaction Scale (HDS), a multidimensional measure designed to assess height dissatisfaction across affective, behavioral, and cognitive domains in individuals of any height or gender. A community and undergraduate sample (N = 332; 72.9% women; M age = 24.42, SD  = 10.02) completed the 14-item HDS alongside an established measures of height dissatisfaction (the NPSS-S), eating disorder symptoms, and self-esteem. Participants also reported their actual and ideal height, which was used to calculate a height difference score (ideal height minus actual height). Exploratory factor analysis supported a unidimensional structure with 10 items, which was further supported by confirmatory factor analysis. The HDS demonstrated excellent internal consistency (α = .92), and correlated with the NPSS-S, eating disorder symptoms, self-esteem, as well as participants’ actual height and height difference score, supporting convergent and concurrent validity. Notably, the HDS captured both upward and downward dissatisfaction, identifying compensatory behaviors linked to height concerns (e.g., posture modification, body fat loss). However, test–retest reliability was not assessed, limiting conclusions about temporal stability. The HDS offers a psychometrically sound tool for investigating height dissatisfaction and its psychological outcomes across diverse populations. Findings highlight the need to consider height in body image research and interventions.