Psychometric Properties and Normative Data of the Spanish UPPS-P Impulsive Behavior Scale in Adolescents

Abstract

Impulsivity is a multidimensional construct linked to a broad spectrum of psychopathological and neuropsychological disorders. The UPPS-P model has emerged as a valuable tool for assessing impulsivity from a multi-dimensional perspective. Despite its relevance, few studies have examined the psychometric properties of the UPPS-P scale scores in a large, representative sample of adolescents. This study aims to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Spanish UPPS-P in adolescents and to establish normative data for this population in Spain. To this end, 9024 students aged 11-19 from 66 different Spanish high schools were included. The fit for the expected 5-factor model, assessed through confirmatory factor analysis, was inadequate (CFI and TLI ≤.85, RMSEA =.063), but becomes satisfactory when employing the more flexible ESEM approach (CFI and TLI ≥.94, RMSEA =.038), which was invariant across gender and age. Internal consistency reliability was satisfactory (ω =.83 to.94). Convergent validity with the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11-A total score was good (r =.53 to.60). We provide population norms of the UPPS-P, which may help practitioners to interpret the UPPS-P scores of adolescents from the general population in Spain. Subsequent research should explore implications for both clinical and non-clinical settings.