The structure and correlates of anxiety sensitivity in older adults
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 9, 2026

Reducing State Anxiety Using Working Memory Maintenance
Published on: July 19, 2017
1Department of Psychology, University of Oregon, USA. jm904@columbia.edu
Abstract:
Anxiety sensitivity (AS) has been defined as the fear of symptoms of anxiety and panic, and is most frequently assessed with the Anxiety Sensitivity Index (Peterson & Reiss, 1987). To investigate the nature and structure of AS in an older sample, data were collected from a sample of 322 adults aged 65 to 97, with mean age 75. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated a hierarchical structure with three group factors (physical concerns, mental incapacitation concerns, and social concerns), as well as a general factor, consistent with previous investigations. Results suggest that the nature and structure of the AS trait in older adults are highly similar to those of younger adults.
Related Concept Videos
Theory of Romantic Attachment in Adulthood
Anxiety: Overview
Individuals with anxiety often experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including sweating, trembling, tachycardia, and disturbances in sleep patterns. These symptoms vary in intensity and frequency but are generally disruptive and distressing.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Social Anxiety Disorder
Hazan and Shaver's Attachment Styles
Pharmacodynamics in Geriatric Patients: Effects of Age