Development of a Short Version of the Dissociation Questionnaire (sDIS-Q) : Assessment of Its Psychometric Properties within a Non-Clinical and Clinical Sample.

Abstract

Introduction: Dissociation is a prevalent phenomenon. Existing psychometric tools for measuring dissociation have faced several criticisms. The Dissociation Questionnaire (DIS-Q) is a noteworthy tool but suffers from being lengthy (63 items) and including non-pathological components of dissociation. This study aims to develop a shorter version of the DIS-Q (sDIS-Q) that focuses on the core pathological manifestations of dissociation.

Method: We recruited 511 participants from the non-clinical sample and used archival data from 86 patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They completed the DIS-Q along with other questionnaires assessing related psychological mechanisms (e.g. PTSD, emotion regulation, beliefs about dissociation). Drawing on the expertise of clinicians, we selected items that were more indicative of pathological forms of dissociation.

Results: We identified a two-factor structure of the sDIS-Q. The first factor was associated with perceived detachment, while the second was related to amnesia. The fit indices were satisfactory in both the non-clinical and the clinical sample. We also observed good internal consistency (α=[.89-.91]) and concurrent validity.

Conclusion: The sDIS-Q is a reliable tool that can be used in both clinical and research settings. Its shorter length is beneficial for patients, researchers, and clinicians.