The Analogical Symptom Assessment (ASA): Italian validation in a non-clinical sample.

Background: The Analogical Symptom Assessment (ASA) (Baldoni, 2013) is a multidimensional self-report questionnaire that assesses the general state of health as perceived by the subject. The instrument consists of seven questions on an analogical basis (a ten-centimeter line) in a single A4 page. The main advantages lie in considering dimensions usually neglected by conventional questionnaires, such as the quality of relationships and the use of dysfunctional behaviors to control emotional dysregulation and psychological suffering. The ASA is a state measure, which can vary significantly because of existential changes or significant therapeutic interventions. It can be considered a thermometer of the general health state of the person. Methods: The criterion-related validity of the ASA has been studied in a sample of 150 subjects, representative of the Italian general population, distributed equally for sex and age group (20-34; 35-49; >50). The selection was made by snowball sampling. The following tests were administered to all subjects: ASA, SQ, and SCL-90-R. Results: Pearson’s r correlation was analyzed comparing subscales and scales. All the indexes of scales that assess the same dimensions were significant (p<0.01). Factor Analysis highlighted in the ASA two latent variables: “internalized” and “externalized” suffering. According to the test-retest reliability, further studies are necessary. Conclusions: The ASA revealed good psychometric properties and adequate concurrent validity. Due to its simplicity, cost effectiveness and speed of its delivery system, it turns out to be a useful instrument both in clinical and research contexts.