Development and Validation of the MBQ-20: A Metacognitive Belief Questionnaire for Delusions in Schizophrenia-A Pilot Study

Background

Delusions in schizophrenia are characterized by rigidity and resistance to change; processes potentially linked to metacognitive deficits. However, there is a lack of specific tools to assess metacognitive beliefs related to delusions.

Purpose

This pilot study details the development and initial psychometric validation of the Metacognitive Belief Questionnaire for Delusions in Schizophrenia (MBQ-20).

Materials and Methods

Employing a cross-sectional design, 64 outpatients with schizophrenia from a tertiary care hospital in South India were assessed using the MBQ-20 and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Internal consistency was evaluated with Cronbach's alpha, and validity through Pearson's correlations and group comparisons (ANOVA).

Results

The initial results from the MBQ-20 suggest strong reliability (α=0.92) and validity, as indicated by significant negative correlations between scores on the MBQ-20 and PANSS delusion severity (ranging from -0.78 - -0.87, p<0.001). Additionally, significant differences in MBQ-20 scores were found between mild, moderate, and severe groups of delusions (F (2, 61)=105.6, p<0.001, η²=0.78), and item analysis indicated adequate levels of item discrimination.

Conclusion

Overall, results indicate that the MBQ-20 could be a reliable and valid measure of metacognitive beliefs related to delusions amongst individuals with schizophrenia; however, this measure will need to be validated on a larger scale.