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Factor structure of the Dysfunctional Attitude Scale (Form A) and the Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire: an
Andrea P Chioqueta1, Tore C Stiles
1Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), N-7491 Trondheim, Norway. Andrea.Chioqueta@svt.ntnu.no
Psychological Reports
|October 14, 2006
Summary
This study examined dysfunctional attitudes and automatic thoughts in male military recruits. Findings identified specific negative thought patterns, aiding in targeted psychological interventions for this demographic.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Military Psychology
Background:
- Dysfunctional attitudes and automatic thoughts are linked to psychological distress.
- Understanding these cognitions in specific populations like military recruits is crucial for mental health.
- The Norwegian versions of the Dysfunctional Attitude Scale (DAS) and Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire (ATQ) require psychometric validation in diverse samples.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the factor structure of the Norwegian DAS and ATQ.
- To identify specific dysfunctional beliefs and negative automatic thoughts in male military recruits.
- To inform the development of tailored psychological interventions for military personnel.
Main Methods:
- Principal factor analysis with promax rotation was employed.
- The study sample comprised 344 male military recruits.
- The Dysfunctional Attitude Scale (DAS) and Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire (ATQ) were administered.
Main Results:
- The DAS yielded four factors: Performance Evaluation, Need for Approval, Autonomous Attitude, and Perfectionism.
- The ATQ comprised two factors: Negative Self-concept and Personal Maladjustment, and Desire for Change and Negative Expectations.
- These factors accounted for varying percentages of the total variance, with Negative Self-concept and Personal Maladjustment being the most prominent for the ATQ.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a validated factor structure for the Norwegian DAS and ATQ in a military recruit sample.
- Identified cognitive patterns can guide the development of targeted therapeutic strategies.
- Findings support the utility of these measures in assessing psychological vulnerabilities within military populations.
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