Analysis of the psychometric properties of the Entrapment Scale in a sample of Spanish adolescents

Abstract

The entrapment scale was designed by Gilbert and Allan (1998) to assess the subjective presence of feelings of entrapment generated by external situations or internal events (thoughts and feelings) and with no possibility of escape. This perception of feeling trapped together with the feeling of defeat is central to the evidence-based, Integrated motivational-volitional O'Connor model (IMV). The aim of the present study is to provide some empirical evidence about the adaptation of the Entrapment Scale to the adolescent Spanish population related to its internal structure. According to the theoretical background, three different models were tested: a) two correlated factors; b) a second order factor; c) a bifactor model. The bifactor model suggests the existence of a main factor that influences all items, alongside separate, uncorrelated factors specific to different subscales, external and internal entrapment. In the sample used, this model could be useful for representing the internal structure of scale. The main theoretical and practical implications regarding the suicide spectrum will be discussed. Additionally, we try to give some general notes for clinical intervention of suicidal behavior.