The Frustration Discomfort Scale: development and psychometric properties

Abstract

Frustration intolerance beliefs are hypothesized by rational–emotive behaviour therapy (REBT) to form one of two major categories of psychological disturbance, along with those referring to self-worth. Although frustration intolerance is a central REBT concept its content and factor structure are unclear. Therefore, a multidimensional measure, the Frustration Discomfort Scale (FDS), was developed based on REBT literature and theory. An exploratory factor analysis, using a combined clinical and student population, indicated a four-factor structure. These dimensions were labelled (I) emotional intolerance, involving intolerance of emotional distress; (II) entitlement, involving intolerance of unfairness and frustrated gratification; (III) discomfort intolerance, involving intolerance of difficulties and hassles, and (IV) achievement, involving intolerance of frustrated achievement goals. From these results, a simplified scale was developed, with confirmatory factor analysis supporting a four-factor solution. Both the preliminary and revised scales showed good internal reliability, and evidence of discriminative validity. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.