Italian validation of the Italian multidimensional psychological flexibility inventory (MPFI)

Abstract

The Multidimensional Psychological Flexibility Inventory (MPFI) is a recently developed measure of psychological flexibility and inflexibility based on the psychological functioning model of behavior change that underpins Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). The present study sought to develop a validation of this measure in Italian language from its English original version and explored the factor structure and reliability as well as convergent and concurrent validity of the Italian version of the MPFI. A total of 1,542 participants (71% female, M = 38.6 years old, SD = 15.0 years) completed an online cross-sectional survey including the Italian MPFI, other measures of psychological flexibility, and measures of metal health (anxiety, depression, and well-being). Confirmatory factor analysis replicated the factor structure of the original MPFI. The Italian MPFI had a two second-order factor structure composed of six first-order factors of flexibility and six first-order factors of inflexibility, with good construct validity. The Italian MPFI evinced good internal consistency, and convergent and concurrent validity. It also exhibited measurement invariance for gender, age, and mental health status. The Italian MPFI is a psychometrically sound measure of psychological flexibility and inflexibility in the Italian context. The Italian MPFI offers new tools in ACT theoretical and intervention research in Italy.