Psychometric Properties of Persian-Ambiguous Scenarios Test for Depression in Iranian Population

Abstract

Background: The ambiguous scenarios test for depression (AST-D) is a practice-oriented test designed to measure interpretive bias in both nonclinical and clinical populations. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the validity and reliability of the Persian version of the ambiguous scenarios test (AST) in the Iranian population. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 365 participants were selected using a convenience sampling method. The original version of the test was translated into Persian and then back-translated into English by professional translators. The quality of the translation was subsequently verified by an independent team. Participants completed the Spontaneous Use of Mental Imagery Scale (SUIS), Beck’s Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), prospective imagery task (PIT), Dimensional Anhedonia Rating Scale (DARS), and the Persian-AST. The validity, reliability, and factor structure of the scales were examined. Results: The Persian version of the AST demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.90; McDonald’s ω = 0.91) and strong test-retest reliability (r = 0.79). Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) revealed a seven-factor structure, accounting for 56.09% of the total variance. The AST showed significant correlations with the BDI-II (r = -0.42, P < 0.01), DARS (r = -0.37, P < 0.01), SUIS (r = 0.34, P < 0.01), and PIT (r = 0.30 - 0.61, P < 0.01), supporting its concurrent validity. No significant gender differences were observed in AST scores. Conclusions: The Persian version of the AST is a reliable and valid tool for assessing interpretation bias in the Iranian population. Its strong psychometric properties and ability to differentiate between individuals with positive and negative interpretive biases make it a valuable instrument for both clinical and research settings. Future studies should explore its utility in diverse populations and its sensitivity to change in response to cognitive bias modification interventions.