Confirmatory factor analysis of the Behavioral Inhibition and Activation Scales

Abstract

John Gray [1987, In S.M. Stahl, S.D. Iversen & E.C. Goodman (Eds.) Cognitive neurochemistry (pp. 171–190). Oxford: Oxford University Press] specifies a three-factor model of motivation including a behavioral inhibition system (BIS) and behavioral activation system (BAS). Carver and White [(1994) J of Pers Soc Psychol, 67, 319–333] recently developed the BIS/BAS scales in an effort to refine the measurement of these constructs in humans. We examined the latent structure of this measure in a sample of college undergraduates ( n=476). Using structural equation modeling, the current study found that a four-factor model best fit the data. When BAS subscales were examined, results suggested that these subscales should be considered as separate constructs rather than as a global measure of behavioral activation. These findings caution the use of the Carver and White scales in the measurement of behavioral activation and highlight the importance of treating BAS subscales as independent constructs.