Reliability of the Spanish version of the pain beliefs and perceptions inventory among women with fibromyalgia in Catalonia, Spain

Fibromyalgia presents a significant challenge to individsuals due to its pervasive pain symptoms. The Pain Beliefs and Perceptions Inventory (PBPI) offers a structured tool to delve into the nuanced beliefs surrounding pain. We aim to explore the feasibility of a condensed version of PBPI in assessing pain perceptions among individuals living with fibromyalgia in Catalonia, Spain. During February 2020 and March 2021, 419 individuals above 18 years old (91% women) were administered a short version of the PBPI to streamline the questionnaire while retaining its core components. This reduced version was subjected to rigorous evaluation to ascertain its internal reliability. The condensed 12-factor inventory exhibited promising internal consistency, with a Cronbach's Alpha coefficient of .72. This reliability suggests that the abbreviated PBPI maintains its integrity in capturing diverse facets of pain beliefs and perceptions among fibromyalgia patients. Findings underscore the utility of the shortened Spanish PBPI questionnaire in assessing the multifaceted landscape of pain beliefs among individuals diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Despite the sample is mostly represented by women, and the results need to be taken with precaution in men, this streamlined version offers an efficient tool for clinicians and researchers alike to delve into the intricate interplay between perceptions, beliefs, and the experience of pain. • Fibromyalgia needs a patient-centered, biopsychosocial approach. The PBPI assesses pain and psychosocial factors, guiding recovery. • The 12-factor inventory showed strong consistency (Cronbach's Alpha = .72), preserving the PBPI's ability to assess pain beliefs. • The shortened Spanish PBPI effectively assesses pain beliefs in fibromyalgia, providing a practical tool for clinicians and researchers.