Hybrid latent structure of anxiety sensitivity in a Serbian sample

What is it about?

The present study uses a novel factor mixture modeling approach and provides support for a hybrid, dimensional-categorical latent structure of anxiety sensitivity (AS) that is a known transdiagnostic risk factor. It suggests the existence of Normative, Moderate, and High (vulnerable) AS classes. Obtained results imply potential qualitative differences between the members of different AS classes and offer cut-off scores that could be used for recruiting research participants or targeting vulnerable individuals in need of treatment interventions.

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Photo by Tonik on Unsplash

Photo by Tonik on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This is the first study of this kind using a sample from the Serbian language context. It shows that the translation of the instrument shows fairly similar characteristics as the original version of the instrument, thus it is a good measure of the AS construct in the Serbian speaking population. It also adds to the worldwide existing literature that is trying to address the question of the latent structure of the AS. The fact that AS demonstrates a hybrid latent structure can be very useful for selecting participants for future studies (i.e. it provides cut-off scores) but also for recognizing those who could potentially benefit from some kind of treatment. There are some novel studies recommending brief AS intervention and these results could be used to identify people at risk who should receive the treatment.

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