Factor structure analysis of the SCL-90-R in a community-based sample of African American women

The empirical literature pertaining to anxiety and related disorders in African Americans continues to be sparse, raising significant doubt upon the valid assessment of anxiety and related disorders in African American samples. The identification of culturally valid instruments that accurately identify the symptomatology associated with anxiety and related constructs as well as differentiating individuals who meet criteria for anxiety and related disorders would undoubtedly enhance our understanding of anxiety and related constructs in diverse populations while assisting researchers in identifying ingredients for culturally sensitive therapies (CSTs). The current study represents a major stride in this area through examination of the factor structure of the Symptom Checklist 90-Revised (SCL-90-R) in a community-based sample of African American women. Ninety-one African American women completed the SCL-90-R as part of a larger investigation of anxiety and related disorders in African American parent–child dyads. Results suggest that psychological distress, as measured by the SCL-90-R, adequately fits the current data. Implications and suggestions for future work in this area are discussed.