Factor structure of the State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory for middle-aged men and women

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Social Psychology

Background:

• The State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory (STAXI) is a key measure for assessing anger.
• Previous research identified six factors, with a seventh emerging for women in a student sample.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the factor structure of the STAXI in a middle-aged adult population.
• To test the validity of Spielberger's AHA! model using confirmatory factor analyses.
• To investigate gender differences in anger expression.

Main Methods:

• Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed on STAXI responses from middle-aged adults.
• Cross-validation procedures were employed to assess model validity.
• Statistical analyses examined gender differences in specific STAXI factors.

Main Results:

• A seven-factor model demonstrated a better fit than a six-factor solution for both genders.
• A "Feel-Like-Expressing-Anger" factor was identified for both men and women.
• Significant gender differences were observed in "Feel-Like-Expressing-Anger" and "State Anger" factors.

Conclusions:

• The seven-factor structure of the STAXI is supported in middle-aged adults.
• Gender differences in anger expression align with societal norms regarding social costs and benefits.
• The findings contribute to understanding gender-specific anger dynamics.