Factor structure and construct validity of the Anxiety Sensitivity Index among island Puerto Ricans

Authors

Jennifer A. Cintrón, American University
Michele M. Carter, American University
Sonia Suchday, Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Tracy Sbrocco, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
James Gray, American University

Date of this Version

2005

Comments

Published in Anxiety Disorders 19 (2005) 51–68.

Abstract

The factor structure and convergent and discriminant validity of the Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI) were examined among a sample of 275 island Puerto Ricans. Results from a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) comparing our data to factor solutions commonly reported as representative of European American and Spanish populations indicated a poor fit. A subsequent exploratory factor analysis (EFA) indicated that a two-factor solution (Factor 1, Anxiety Sensitivity; Factor 2, Emotional Concerns) provided the best fit. Correlations between the ASI and anxiety measures were moderately high providing evidence of convergent validity, while correlations between the ASI and BDI were significantly lower providing evidence of discriminant validity. Scores on all measures were positively correlated with acculturation, suggesting that those who ascribe to more traditional Hispanic culture report elevated anxiety.