The Affective Neuroscience Personality Scale-Short Form (ANPS-SF): Validation and Adaptation of the Italian Version on Clinical and Non-Clinical Samples of Adolescents and Young Adults

The Affective Neuroscience theory identifies seven neurobiological systems (SEEK, CARE, PLAY, SADNESS, FEAR, ANGER, and LUST) that are phylogenetically and ontogenetically determined, shared by all mammals, and localized in ancient subcortical brain regions. These systems, influenced by genetic and environmental factors, shape individual differences. A new instrument, the Affective Neuroscience Personality Scale (ANPS), was created to measure the expression of these primary emotional systems, foundational to human personality. A short version, the ANPS-SF, has been released but not validated in Italy. This study aimed to adapt and validate the ANPS-SF by examining its psychometric properties. A large sample of clinical and non-clinical young adults and adolescents (<i>n</i> = 827) also completed instruments assessing external validity, including the Big Five Inventory (BFI) and others. Results indicated that the ANPS-SF possesses satisfactory psychometric properties, highlighted by strong internal consistency and correlations with other measures. A two-higher-order-factors solution was identified, revealing General Positive Affect and General Negative Affect. Significant differences were noted between clinical and non-clinical groups, as well as across age and gender. Overall, the ANPS-SF can be effectively utilized in Italy, providing insights into primary emotional systems and their interaction with individual characteristics, relevant for both clinical and non-clinical populations.