Panic Disorder Severity Scale self-report: transcultural validation and sensitivity to change of the French-Canadian adaptation

Abstract

Introduction The self-report version of the Panic Disorder Severity Scale (PDSS-SR) is a reliable and valid instrument to assess panic disorder, but is unavailable in French. Objectives The aim of this study was to conduct a transcultural validation of the French-Canadian PDSS-SR and examine its psychometric properties. Methods This study is part of a pragmatic RCT of group transdiagnostic CBT for anxiety disorders, and includes 272 adults meeting DSM-5 panic disorder diagnostic criteria. At baseline, participants completed the Anxiety and Related Disorders Interview Schedule (ADIS-5), the French-Canadian PDSS-SR and self-report measures. Convergent validity was assessed with Spearman correlations, Cronbach’s α was used to analyse internal consistency, and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) evaluated its factor structure. Sensitivity to change was assessed with paired sample t-tests in patients (n = 72) meeting DSM-5 criteria for panic disorder at baseline with posttreatment data. Results 108 patients met DSM-5 criteria for panic disorder, including 58 with agoraphobia. The majority were women (85.3%) and mean age was 37.1 (SD = 12.4). Internal consistency (Cronbach’s α) was 0.91. For convergent validity, the highest correlation was with the Beck Anxiety Inventory (r = 0.64). CFA suggested a two-factor model. Optimal threshold for probable diagnosis was 10. Analyses support sensitivity to change when comparing transdiagnostic group CBT and control conditions. Conclusions With its good psychometric properties in primary care patients, the French-Canadian self-report version of the Panic Disorder Severity Scale is an efficient and practical instrument for both clinicians and researchers working in the field of mental health. Disclosure No significant relationships.

Keywords

• Psychometric properties
• panic disorder
• French validation
• Assessment scale