Description

The Panic and Agoraphobia Scale (PAS-14) is an assessment tool used to measure the severity of panic and agoraphobia symptoms in individuals. The scale includes questions related to the experience of panic attacks, worry about future attacks, and avoidance of situations or places associated with anxiety.

Data Analysis and Use

Data analysis from the PAS-14 may include:

Scoring: Questions are typically evaluated on a Likert scale, where participants rate the severity of their symptoms. Higher scores indicate greater severity of symptoms.

Descriptive Statistics: Means and standard deviations are used to determine the overall severity of symptoms in a population.

Correlation: Examination of the relationship between panic symptoms and factors such as age, gender, or socioeconomic conditions.

Comparative Analysis: Comparisons between different groups (e.g., individuals with agoraphobia and individuals without agoraphobia) can reveal differences in symptom severity.

Objective

The objective of the PAS-14 is to assess the severity of panic and agoraphobia symptoms, providing information to aid in diagnosis and treatment. The scale allows healthcare professionals to monitor patient progress during therapeutic interventions.

Calibration

The calibration of the PAS-14 involves the process of adjusting the tool for use in different populations. This is achieved through:

Cross-Cultural Studies: The PAS-14 is tested in different cultural and geographical contexts to ensure it is appropriate and reliable.

Reliability Analysis: Use of statistical methods, such as Cronbach’s alpha, to determine that the questions are consistent.

Validity Testing: Examination of the PAS-14’s ability to reflect the real experiences of participants regarding panic and agoraphobia symptoms.

References

Craske, M. G., & Barlow, D. H. (2006). Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia: A Clinical Guide. New York: Guilford Press.

Klein, D. F. (1993). The Anxiety Disorders: A Diagnostic and Treatment Handbook. New York: Wiley.

Löwe, B., Spitzer, R. L., Zipfel, S., & Herzog, W. (2002). Assessing Depression and Anxiety: A New Self-Report Scale. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 63(1), 41-50.