The Anticipated Stigma and Concealment Questionnaire (ASCQ): Psychometric properties of a Spanish version in a Chilean sample of brain injury survivors

Stigma represents a major obstacle in rehabilitation and community reintegration after brain injury. However, appropriate tools to measure stigma in Spanish-speaking countries are lacking. This study examined the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the Anticipated Stigma and Concealment Questionnaire (ASCQ). An observational cross-sectional study was conducted with 103 participants who completed the ASCQ and other measures. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were performed to assess the scale's structure. Associations between the ASCQ and other mental health measures were explored to establish its nomological validity. All ASCQ items loaded significantly onto a single factor, with factor loadings ranging from .7 to .84. While χ² (35) = 56.282, p < .05, some fit indices indicated excellent model fit (CFI = .997 and TLI = .996), while others suggested a good fit (RMSEA = .077, 90% CI [.036, .113], and SRMR = .060). Significant associations were found between the ASCQ and measures of loneliness, depressive symptoms, quality of life, and self-esteem. The ASCQ is a valid and reliable tool for assessing anticipated stigma and the motivation to conceal information after acquired brain injury. It can aid rehabilitation professionals in identifying individuals with interpersonal difficulties during community reintegration.