Psychometric Evaluation of the Cognitive Distortions Scale (CDS) in Pakistani Adults

Abstract

Culturally grounded Urdu measures of cognitive distortions for nonclinical Pakistani adults are limited. This research developed and evaluated the Urdu Cognitive Distortions Scale (CDS). In Study 1, an existing item pool was reviewed through expert and respondent feedback and examined using exploratory factor analysis (N = 410, M = 24.08 years, range = 18–50 years). The resulting 27-item scale comprised six related dimensions, labeling, overgeneralization, mind reading, personalization, all-or-nothing thinking, and should statements, and showed excellent internal consistency (α = .93). Study 2 tested this six-factor structure in an independent sample (N = 542, M = 23.12 years, range = 18–50 years). Confirmatory factor analysis indicated acceptable fit, χ²(307) = 785.72, p < .001, comparative fit index = .92, Tucker-Lewis index = .91, and root mean square error of approximation = .054. Standardized loadings ranged from .60 to .84, and total-score internal consistency was .91. Study 3 examined construct validity in a third sample (N = 300, M = 25.58 years, range = 18–50 years). CDS scores correlated positively with an established Urdu cognitive-distortion measure (r = .86), negative core beliefs (r = .85), and depressive symptoms (r = .54), and negatively with life satisfaction (r = −.61) and resilience (r = −.39), all ps < .001. Generalizability is limited by regional nonclinical samples, cross-sectional self-report data, and the lack of test-retest and measurement-invariance evidence. The 27-item Urdu CDS shows preliminary utility for research and psychoeducation; clinical interpretation requires further validation.