Pathological Affective Dependence as a Risk Factor for Intimate Partner Violence: Initial Psychometric Validation of the Italian Version of the Pathological Affective Dependence Scale

Purpose: This study aimed to validate the Italian version of the Pathological Affective Dependence Scale (PADS), which assesses both trait and state manifestations of Pathological Affective Dependence (PAD), a key risk factor for Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). Methods: Two studies were conducted in the general population and IPV survivor samples. Study 1 used a sample of 360 participants for Confirmatory and Exploratory Factor Analysis (CFA and EFA). Study 2 included 362 participants for an additional CFA and reliability analysis to further assess the scale's factor structure and internal consistency, and for a correlational analysis to determine its convergent and discriminant validity. Results: Our factor analytic findings revealed that the PADS' 17 items represent three factors: internal conflict, inability to separate and partner abuse. The scale's state and trait versions showed satisfactory reliability, and convergent and discriminant validity. Conclusions: The findings suggest that the PADS is a useful tool for assessing and enhancing our understanding of PAD as a psychological risk factor for IPV. As such, it can help prevent IPV and support individual IPV survivors by identifying and treating PAD, while also contributing to clinical and social research into IPV. © 2025 The Author(s). Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.