Abstract
A confirmatory factor analysis of the Childhood Anxiety Sensitivity Index. The factor structure of the anxiety sensitivity was examined in a sample of normal children aged 9-11 years (N = 151). Participants completed the Spanish version of the Childhood Anxiety Sensitivity Index (CASI; Silverman, Fleisig, Rabian & Peterson, 1991). Reliability of items and factor structure (exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses) of the CASI were investigated. Results showed that anxiety sensitivity, as indexed by the CASI, was best viewed as a multidimensional scale of two (somatic, and mental concerns) or three (somatic, mental, and control/social concerns) correlated first-order factors. A hierarchical multidimensional model with either two or three first-order factors was also supported. Results are discussed regarding previous research with adolescent and adult populations, and further provide empirical support for structural validity of the Spanish CASI.
