Psychometric evaluation of the behavioral inhibition/activation system scales in older adults in Mainland China: A classical test theory and item response theory approach.

Abstract

This study revises the Chinese version of the Behavioral Inhibition System/Behavioral Activation System (BIS/BAS) scale for older adults in Mainland China, emphasizing cultural sensitivity. We assessed its reliability and validity using Classical Test and Item Response theories with data from 778 community-dwelling older adults. Item analysis confirmed adequate discriminative power for all items. Exploratory factor analysis revealed four factors with loadings ranging from 0.492 to 0.904, explaining 51.20 % of the variance. Confirmatory factor analysis supported a four-factor second-order model. Notable correlations were found: Self-Efficacy and Resilience negatively correlated with BIS but positively with BAS, while Depression correlated positively with BIS. The Attention to Positive Information Scale correlated solely with BAS. Discrimination indices for the BIS/BAS scale were acceptable, and difficulty parameters spanned a wide respondent range. The item information curve indicated optimal measurement for individuals with moderate ability. Overall, the revised BIS/BAS scale demonstrates strong reliability and validity, with robust psychometric properties confirmed through both Classical Test and Item Response theories.