Date of Submission

2004

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

Department Chair

Robert A. DiTomasso, Ph.D. ABPP

First Advisor

Elizabeth A. Gosch, Ph.D., ABPP, Chairperson

Second Advisor

Robert A. DiTomasso, Ph.D. ABPP

Third Advisor

Jonathan B. Grayson, Ph.D.

Abstract

The psychometric properties of the Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI) have been criticized. Although it has been the gold standard in research and assessment, its reliability (i.e., internal consistency) has been questioned. There are doubts about its ability to identify accurately the underlying factors for anxiety sensitivity. To provide a more accurate description of the anxiety sensitivity construct, Taylor and Cox (1998) developed the Anxiety Sensitivity Profile (ASP) and performed analyses based on a sample of 349 university students. The current study utilized a clinical sample to test the hypotheses that the ASP would have convergent validity with the ASI and discriminant validity with the trait version of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAl). This correlational study was conducted with a clinical sample of 105 adults, 19 to 65 years old, who have an anxiety disorder. Each subject completed the ASP, ASI, STAl, and the computerized version of the SClD-I/P. Results supported the hypotheses. Large correlations at the .01 level were found for the ASP and ASI total scores and ASP subscale scores. Modest correlations were found for the ASI and ASP total and subscale scores and the trait version of the STAl at the .05 level. Reliability (internal consistency) for the ASI total scores and ASP subscales was high. Therefore this study provides evidence for convergent validity with the ASI. It also provides necessary, although not sufficient evidence for construct validity for the ASP subscales. Internal consistency reliability cannot be determined for all of the underlying domains of the ASI, because one of the domains consists of only one item. This evidence implies that the ASP is psychometrically superior to the ASI for research and treatment. Instead of the three underlying factors of the ASI, six factors are implied. Evidence is provided through convergent validity and internal consistency reliability found for the six ASP subscales. It is speculated that utilization of the ASP will support improved consistency in research through the use of congruence (i.e., matching the symptoms caused by a provocation task and the symptoms a person fears). Furthermore the ASP will support accurate identification of the domains underlying anxiety sensitivity that contribute to its association with all anxiety disorders. Finally, there are applied implications. These include the fact that those at risk can be identified and given brief cognitive-behavioral therapy as a preventive intervention. Also, treatment can target congruent cognitions, and elevated anxiety sensitivity at the end of treatment can be targeted for further interventions.

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