Examining the Factor Structure and Incremental Utility of the Contrast Avoidance Questionnaires via Bifactor Analysis

J Pers Assess. 2023 Mar-Apr;105(2):238-248. doi: 10.1080/00223891.2022.2081921. Epub 2022 Jun 8.

Abstract

The negative emotional contrast avoidance model posits that pathological worry is maintained by the avoidance of negative emotional shifts. The Contrast Avoidance Questionnaires (CAQ-Worry and CAQ-General Emotion) aim to assess contrast avoidance beliefs and behaviors. Questions remain around the factor structures of the CAQs, whether such structures replicate in nonundergraduate samples, and whether their domain-specific factors are valid for independent use. This study used bifactor analysis in a large community sample (N = 827) to address these gaps in the literature. Results supported bifactor models of both measures. Complementary analyses supported the multidimensionality of the CAQ-Worry, including its strong general factor and independent use of two domain-specific factors, rather than the original three domain-specific factors. The CAQ-General Emotion's general factor was strong, but the merits of the Discomfort domain-specific factor require more exploration, and use of the Avoidance domain-specific factor is discouraged.

MeSH terms

  • Anxiety Disorders / psychology
  • Anxiety* / psychology
  • Emotions*
  • Humans
  • Surveys and Questionnaires