Mentalization Scale (MentS): Validity and reliability of the Iranian version in a sample of nonclinical adults

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Mentalizing incapacity is increasingly identified as a common factor in psychopathology. The Mentalization Scale (MentS) is a cost‐effective measure built upon the dimensional model of mentalizing. We aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Iranian version of MentS. Methods Two samples of community‐based adults (N1 = 450, N2 = 445) completed different batteries of self‐report measures. In addition to MentS, participants completed measures of reflective functioning and attachment insecurities in the first sample and a measure of emotion dysregulation in the second sample. Results Due to the conflicting results of confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses, an item‐parceling approach was applied, which replicated the original three‐factor structure of MentS, yielding Self‐Related Mentalization, Other‐Related Mentalization, and Motivation to Mentalize. The reliability and convergent validity of MentS were supported in both samples. Conclusion Our findings provided preliminary evidence for using the Iranian version of MentS in nonclinical populations as a reliable and valid measure.

Keywords

• mentalizing capacity
• Mentalization Scale
• psychometric properties