Psychometric properties of the Spanish validation of the Insight Scale

Abstract

Introduction. The aim of our study was to validate the Spanish version of the Insight Scale (IS) (Birchwood et al, 1994), a multidimensional self-report insight scale.

Method. Observational study in a sample of patients with psychosis. A translation-backtranslation of the original scale was elaborated. Feasibility was calculated. Concurrent criteria validity with item 12 of PANSS, construct convergent and divergent validity with DAI and BPRS were calculated. IS scores between voluntary and involuntary inpatients were used for discriminant validity. Factor analysis, temporal reliability and internal consistency were also examinated.

Results. The sample consisted of 61 patients. Intervalss Correlation Coeficient (ICC) between item 12 of PANSS and IS was 0.49. Correlation between IS and DAI and IS and BPRS was 0.414 (p=0.01) and –0.14 respectively. Difference between mean IS scores of voluntary (8.37) and involuntary inpatients (6.21) was significant (U test Mann-Whitney: 244.5; p=0.005). Three factors were extracted that accounted for 68.32% of variance. Cronbach α was 0.717.

Conclusions. The Spanish version of IS is a quick, simple, self-report and multidimensional instrument of insight with satisfactory psychometric properties.