Validation of the Hungarian Version of the Cognitive Fusion Questionnaire (CFQ-7)

Abstract The aim of the study is the adaptation of the 7-item version of the Cognitive Fusion Questionnaire (CFQ-7) for the Hungarian sample. The factor structure of CFQ-7, the invariance of the structure in different groups, and its relationship with depression, anxiety and stress were previously confirmed by several different studies. This study discusses these analyses within one framework, and the invariance between the different subgroups in a broader context. The sample consisted of 1231 participants (average age 29.35, SD = 11.10). Mainly women took part in the study ( n = 805, 75.56%). Most participants were single ( n = 494, 41.1%) and had a secondary school degree (714, 58.0%). The participants completed the Cognitive Fusion Questionnaire (CFQ-7), Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II (AAQ-II), Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21), Satisfaction With Life Survey (SWLS) and White Bear Suppression Inventory (WBSI). The results confirm the one-factor structure of the CFQ-7 (χ2 = 69.24, df = 12, p <.001, χ2/ df = 5.37, CFI = 0.985, TLI = 0.974, RMSEA = 0.062 [90% CI 0.048, 0.077], SRMR = 0.020.) with adequate internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.918) and test-retest reliability ( r =.665). The measurement tool shows configural, metric, and scalar invariance in groups separated by age, gender, education and psychological treatment history. Its strong correlation with psychological inflexibility (AAQ-II) and general tendency to suppress thoughts (WBSI) ( r =.79 and r =.62); moderate correlation with general psychological distress (DASS-21; r =.59), depression ( r =.57), anxiety ( r =.59) and stress ( r =.61); finally life satisfaction (SWLS; r = −.38) proves external validity of the CFQ-7. The one-factor structure of the questionnaire was confirmed, and its items can be well adapted to Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and also to Cognitive Therapy interventions. Its factorial invariance can be confirmed in different groups. However due to the characteristics of the sample - mainly women, young adults and those without a psychiatric history participated in the study -, further examination of the CFQ-7 in a clinical sample with current psychiatric conditions would be useful.