Validity and reliability of the Japanese Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Adult Version: Gender...

Executive function (EF) is associated with higher cognitive functions in the prefrontal cortex, and its assessment may support daily life activities. The reliability and validity of the Japanese Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Adult Version (J-BRIEF-A) were evaluated in this study. Gender and age differences in EF among adults were explored as a secondary objective. This cross-sectional study involved an online survey among 1378 adults (age: 18-89 years; 689 men) across Japan. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the nine subscales and three-factor model of the J-BRIEF-A (comparative fit index = .98, root mean square error of approximation = .094). Internal consistency and high test-retest stability were also confirmed. Construct validity was confirmed using the Dysexecutive Questionnaire as an external criterion. Younger age groups tended to have higher scores for each item. This study confirmed the reliability of the J-BRIEF-A and provided partial evidence for its validity. The factor analysis supported the theoretical structure of the scale, suggesting factorial validity. The significant correlation between the J-BRIEF-A and Dysexecutive Questionnaire partially supports the J-BRIEF-A's construct validity. Despite relying on self-reported data and there being no direct comparisons with performance-based EF tests, the J-BRIEF-A remains valuable for assessing EF in daily life.