Development and validation of the embodied cognition scale for Chinese university students.
Ziyu Zheng, Yu Wang, Jian Zhao
Frontiers in Psychology November 10, 2025 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1682631 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Mixed-method scale development and validation study Qualitative Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 1,418 |
| Population | Chinese university students (27 students and 8 teachers in qualitative phase; 465 in EFA; 918 in national validation) |
| Measures | Embodied Cognition Scale (ECS), Body Consciousness Scale, Cronbach's alpha, CFI, RMSEA, test-retest reliability |
| Keywords | Environment Activity patterns Structural equation modeling Well-being Embodied cognition University students Psychological resilience Mediation model |
| Key points | The Embodied Cognition Scale (ECS) showed a five-factor structure (bodily perception, social embodiment, embodied imitation, emotional embodiment, cognitive reconstruction) explaining 61.15% of variance, with good fit (CFI = 0.928; RMSEA = 0.062), high internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.954), strong criterion validity with the Body Consciousness Scale (r = 0.81), and test-retest reliability (r = 0.94). The authors propose it as a culturally grounded tool integrating Confucian body-mind unity for assessing embodied processes among Chinese university students. |
Abstract
Introduction: Embodied cognition theory emphasizes that cognition is grounded in bodily movement, perception, and interaction with the environment rather than being purely symbolic or abstract. However, most existing embodied cognition measures are Western-based and lack cultural adaptability. This study aimed to develop and validate the Embodied Cognition Scale (ECS) tailored for Chinese university students, integrating both psychological and cultural dimensions of body-mind unity.
Methods: A mixed-method design was employed across three sequential phases: (1) qualitative exploration with 27 students and 8 teachers to identify embodied cognition patterns; (2) exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and item refinement with 465 participants; and (3) national validation with 918 participants across multiple regions, using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and criterion validity testing with the Body Consciousness Scale.
Results: EFA revealed a five-factor structure-bodily perception, social embodiment, embodied imitation, emotional embodiment, and cognitive reconstruction-explaining 61.15% of total variance. The model demonstrated good psychometric properties (Cronbach's α = 0.954; CFI = 0.928; RMSEA = 0.062) and strong external validity (r = 0.81, p < 0.001). Test-retest reliability (r = 0.94) confirmed stability over time.
Discussion: The ECS offers a culturally grounded, psychometrically robust tool for assessing embodied processes in higher education. By integrating Confucian concepts of body-mind unity and national education modernization goals, it provides both a theoretical and practical framework for embodied learning and mental health promotion among Chinese university students.
Citations in the library
Cites 4
- How do you feel--now? The anterior insula and human awareness. Nature reviews. Neuroscience 2009
- A critical look at the embodied cognition hypothesis and a new proposal for grounding conceptual content. Journal of physiology, Paris 2008
- Embodying emotion. Science May 18, 2007
- The Embodied Mind: Cognitive Science and Human Experience 1991