An evaluation of the construct validity of the Adult Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Personality Psychology

Background:

• Rejection sensitivity (RS) is a transdiagnostic trait linked to psychiatric symptoms and psychosocial dysfunction.
• Accurate assessment of RS vulnerability factors is crucial for personalized treatment and improved clinical outcomes.
• Limited research exists on the factor structure of the Adult Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire (A-RSQ).

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the factor structure of the A-RSQ in adult U.S. residents.
• To investigate associations between A-RSQ factors and mental health correlates.
• To evaluate relations between A-RSQ factors and interpersonal correlates.

Main Methods:

• Two studies (N=346, N=540) analyzed the factor structure of the A-RSQ.
• Correlations were examined with measures of neuroticism, social anxiety, depression, anhedonia, somatic arousal, psychological distress, introversion, submissiveness, and attachment styles.
• Confirmatory factor analysis supported a two-factor solution: rejection expectancy and rejection concern.

Main Results:

• A two-factor model, distinguishing rejection expectancy and rejection concern, consistently fit the data.
• Rejection concern was more strongly associated with negative affect, while expectancy was linked to diminished positive affect.
• Both factors were associated with indicators of interpersonal dysfunction.

Conclusions:

• The current operationalization and conceptualization of RS measured by the A-RSQ may require revision.
• RS is a clinically relevant transdiagnostic phenotype influencing symptom presentation and psychosocial functioning.
• Findings highlight the distinct roles of rejection expectancy and concern in psychological and interpersonal outcomes.