Psychometric properties of the Dissociative Experiences Scale

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Psychiatry
• Clinical Assessment

Background:

• The Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) is a widely used self-report measure.
• Assessing the reliability and validity of diagnostic instruments is crucial for clinical practice.
• Previous research has established the DES's utility, but further examination in clinical samples is warranted.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the test-retest reliability of the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) in a clinical sample.
• To assess the internal consistency and construct validity of the DES.
• To examine the temporal stability of DES scores.

Main Methods:

• The study involved administering the DES to a clinical sample on two separate occasions.
• Test-retest reliability was calculated for total and subscale scores.
• Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha.
• Construct validity was examined using repeated-measures analysis of variance.

Main Results:

• The DES demonstrated high test-retest reliability (total score = .93; subscales = .82-.95).
• Internal consistency was excellent (Cronbach's alpha = .96-.97).
• Significant differentiation among subscale scores supported construct validity.
• DES scores were found to be temporally stable.

Conclusions:

• The Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing dissociative experiences in clinical settings.
• The findings support the clinical usefulness of the DES as a diagnostic tool.
• The study highlights the need for further research on the DES's application in outcome studies.