RT Journal Article
T1 Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Scale of Externalizing Problem Behaviors in Adults (SEPBA): A Hybrid Dimensional–Categorical Instrument
A1 Torres Rosado, Lidia
A1 Lozano Rojas, Óscar Martín
A1 Díaz Batanero, María Carmen
A1 Barba Durán, Raúl
A1 Sánchez García, Manuel
AB Background: The Scale of Externalizing Problem Behaviors in Adults (SEPBA) was developed as a hybrid psychometric instrument designed to assess both dimensional traits and categorical diagnoses associated with externalizing psychopathology. Based on an integrative operational framework drawing on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and the Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) model, the SEPBA assesses 15 traits/facets and 6 disorders within the domains of antagonism and disinhibition.Methods: The present study analyzed the psychometric properties of the SEPBA in a combined community and prisoner sample (n = 922). The final version of the SEPBA included 144 items rated on a 4-point Likert scale. Reliability (α, ω), item discrimination, convergent/discriminant validity, confirmatory factor analyses, and gender measurement invariance were examined.Results: The results indicated adequate item discrimination and internal consistency across all scales. Confirmatory factor analyses supported the unidimensionality of the individual scales and the hypothesized hierarchical organization of traits and facets. Gender invariance of the measure was demonstrated. In addition, evidence of convergent and discriminant validity was provided through correlations with external measures.Conclusion: The findings support the SEPBA as a suitable assessment instrument. Its hybrid structure offers an integrative approach to transdiagnostic assessment, enhancing both the clinical utility of categorical diagnoses and the empirical applicability of dimensional profiles for assessing externalizing behaviors in adults.
PB Fundación López Ibor
SN 1139-9287
SN 1578-2735 (electrónico)
YR 2026
FD 2026
LK https://hdl.handle.net/10272/28290
UL https://hdl.handle.net/10272/28290
LA eng
NO Torres-Rosado, L., M. Lozano, O., Díaz-Batanero, C., Barba-Duran, R., & Sánchez-García, M. (2026). Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Scale of Externalizing Problem Behaviors in Adults (SEPBA): A Hybrid Dimensional–Categorical Instrument. Actas Españolas de Psiquiatría, 54(2), 335–347. https://doi.org/10.62641/aep.v54i2.2066
NO Supported by Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (Spain) with program FPU20/06606.
DS Repositorio Institucional de la Universidad de Huelva
RD 14 jul 2026