The fear of fear concept: evidence in favour of multidimensionality

Abstract

In recent years, questions have been raised regarding the dimensionality of existing measures of fear of fear. This is an important issue that needs to be addressed if the dimension(s) of any scale purporting to assess fear of fear are to guide theory and research. One of the most widely used measures of fear of fear comprises a set of two scales: the Agoraphobic Cognitions Questionnaire (ACQ) and the Body Sensations Questionnaire (BSQ). In the present study, the dimensional nature of both measures was empirically examined using a confirmatory approach. It was also determined whether the dimensions are differentially related to a variety of state and trait measures of psychological functioning. The results pointed to multi- rather than unidimensionality of the fear of fear construct. Correlational and scale-level confirmatory analyses across time-points indicated that (a) fear of fear dimensions are elements of a replicable higher order Negative Affect/Neuroticism/General Emotionality/Instability component; (b) this superfactor emerges orthogonal to the stable higher order factors of Positive Affect, Phobic Fear (excluding Agoraphobic Fears), and Agoraphobia; and (c) anxiety and fear are distinct phenomena. Implications for the conceptualization and measurement of fear of fear are briefly discussed.