Arabic Validation of the Problematic Pornography Consumption Scale: Psychometric Properties, Measurement Invariance, and Gender-Specific Network Analysis.

Abstract

Problematic pornography use (PPU) remains understudied in Arabic-speaking populations, partly due to the limited availability of culturally validated assessment tools. This study translated and validated the Arabic version of the Problematic Pornography Consumption Scale (PPCS) and examined gender-based differences in symptom structure. A total of 959 Egyptian university students who watched pornography at least once per week (65.1% male, 34.9% female) completed the Arabic PPCS, along with standardized measures of depression, anxiety, perceived stress, and problematic internet use. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the original six-factor model (CFI = 0.950, RMSEA = 0.075, SRMR = 0.031), with the scale demonstrating excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's α = .95) and moderate-to-strong construct validity as indicated by positive correlations with measures of depression (r = .42), anxiety (r = .37), perceived stress (r = .37), and problematic internet use (r = .46; all p < .001). Overall, 22% of participants were identified as at risk for PPU. Measurement invariance across gender indicated the scale functioned similarly for males and females. Network analysis further revealed gender-specific symptom patterns, with tolerance emerging as the most central symptom among males and withdrawal most central among females. These findings provide initial validation of the Arabic PPCS and highlight the importance of culturally informed and gender-sensitive approaches to understanding PPU in Arabic-speaking populations.