Evaluation of psychometric properties of Persian version of Avoidance and Fusion Questionnaire for Youth (AFQ – Y)

The concept of psychological inflexibility (PI) was proposed by the acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Avoidance and Fusion Questionnaire for Youth (AFQ–Y) is one of the tools for measuring this factor in youth. The aim of this study is to assess the factor structure and psychometric features of a Persian version of AFQ-Y.

The study sample included 303 school students of Kashan city chosen through cluster sampling method during the year 2017. The tools used were AFQ-Y and Revised Children's Manifest Anxiety Scale (RCMAS). The factor structure of AFQ-Y was studied by exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Also, the convergent validity, test-retest reliability (4-week interval) and internal consistency of AFQ-Y were assessed. The statistical analysis was performed using version 19.0 of the SPSS and AMOS-22.

The results of exploratory factor analysis (EFA) indicated two factors: “cognitive fusion” and “experiential avoidance”. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) confirmed the 2-factor model (RMSEA 90% CI=0.04 - 0.06). Furthermore, the convergent validity(r= 0.60, p < 0.001), Cronbach's alpha coefficient (α= 0.80) and test-retest reliability coefficient (r= 0.73) of this scale were also acceptable.

Based on the results of the present study, the AFQ–Y is an appropriate tool with acceptable psychometric features for measuring PI in the youth population of Iran.