French Validation of the Brief Negative Symptom Scale (BNSS)

ObjectivesThis study aims to validate the French version of the Brief Negative Symptom Scale (BNSS) by assessing its psychometric properties in a population of patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder.Methods73 patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder were included. Participants were evaluated using the BNSS, the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and the Self-Evaluation of Negative Symptoms (SNS). The internal consistency of the BNSS was measured using Cronbach's alpha, structural validity was assessed through exploratory factor analysis, and construct validity was evaluated with Spearman correlations between BNSS scores, the negative subscale of the PANSS, the total SNS score, the positive subscale of the PANSS, and PANSS items evaluating insight and depressive mood.ResultsThe internal consistency of the BNSS was excellent (Cronbach's alpha = 0.93). Exploratory factor analysis revealed two factors corresponding to the motivational and expressive dimensions of negative symptoms. Significant positive correlations were found between total BNSS scores and the negative subscale of the PANSS (Rho = 0.77; p < 0.001), as well as with SNS scores (Rho = 0.55; p < 0.001). No correlation was observed between total BNSS scores and the positive subscales of the PANSS (Rho = 0.09; p = 0.41). However, significant positive correlations were noted with the PANSS item assessing depression (Rho = 0.28; p = 0.015) and insight (Rho = 0.43; p < 0.001).ConclusionThe French version of the BNSS has demonstrated strong psychometric properties and is suitable for clinical and research use.Plain Language Summary TitleValidation d'une échelle d'évaluation des symptômes négatifs, la « Brief Negative Symptom Scale » (BNSS).