A French adaptation of a short version of the Sensitivity to Punishment and Sensitivity to Reward Questionnaire (SPSRQ)

According to Gray’s Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory (RST; Gray, 1982), personality results from the interaction of three major systems: a Behavioural Activation System (BAS), a Behavioural Inhibition System (BIS) and a Fight/Flight System (FFS). Based on this model, Torrubia, Avila, Molto, and Caseras (2001) developed an instrument, the Sensitivity to Punishment and Sensitivity to Reward Questionnaire (SPSRQ), which assesses the two major systems that explain individual differences in sensitivity and reactions to punishing and rewarding stimuli. In the present study, we have proposed a short version of the SPSRQ, based on O’Connor, Colder, and Hawk’s (2004) findings. To this end, 360 participants were screened using the French translation of a short version of the SPSRQ. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that a two-factor model has acceptable fit. Moreover, the results indicated that there was very good internal reliability for both the sensitivity to reward and sensitivity to punishment scales.