ArticleNeurology. Education2026
Education Research: Validity and Reliability of the Neurophobia-Combined Measure (NCM) in Irish Medical Students.
Article in Neurology. Education, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Authors and funding
7 authors.
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Abstract
Background and Objectives: Neurophobia, defined as a fear of neurology and the neurosciences, is a recognized barrier in medical education and clinical practice. It affects one-third of medical students internationally, yet measurement approaches remain inconsistent. This study aimed to validate the Neurophobia-Combined Measure (NCM), a psychometric tool for assessing neurophobia in medical students. Methods: NCM items were developed from literature, expert input, and existing measures of interest, confidence, and anxiety. Final-year medical students at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland completed the NCM alongside the Test Anxiety Inventory (TAI-5), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAIT-5), and a summative Multiple Choice Questionnaire Examination (MCQE). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to evaluate dimensionality. Model fit was assessed using structural equation modeling indices. Internal consistency was estimated with Cronbach alpha and McDonald omega. Criterion, convergent and discriminant validity were assessed via correlations with MCQE, TAI-5, and STAIT-5. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis tested diagnostic accuracy, and invariance was explored across sex and academic entry status. Results: A total of 311 students (mean age = 24 years, SD = 3; 64% female; 70% undergraduate-entry) completed all measures. Exploratory factor analysis supported a 2-factor structure reflecting (1) perceived neurology difficulty/complexity and (2) confidence/interest. The 2-factor model demonstrated good fit, χ Discussion: The NCM demonstrates good reliability and validity and reflects 2 related but distinct dimensions of neurophobia. Future research should examine its applicability across institutions and educational levels.
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