PSYCHOMETRIC PROPERTIES OF THE STATE- TRAIT ANXIETY INVENTORY IN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN LIMA

Abstract

Abstract: A study was conducted on the psychometric properties of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), specifically focusing on its adaptation to Spanish. The aim of this research was to analyze the psychometric properties of the STAI, which was administered to university students aged 18 to 35 in Lima. The study prioritizes concepts such as reliability, validity, and dimensionality in psychometric measurement. With 303 participants, this instrumental study involved a descriptive statistical analysis of the direct scores from the test. Additionally, an exploratory factor analysis of modified items in stress and mood dimensions revealed a reliability of 0.949 using Cronbach's Alpha, confirming the instrument's reliability. Results from internal consistency using McDonald's omega model also supported the test's reliability, yielding a score of 0.950. These findings underscore the robustness and consistency of the instrument in measuring anxiety in the evaluated sample. In summary, the text emphasizes the importance of having valid and reliable psychometric tests, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 crisis and the increase in disorders such as anxiety in Peru. It also highlights the need to advance in the development of tests adapted to the Peruvian reality, as in the case of the STAI.