Italian Adaptation and evaluation of psychometric properties of the Relaxation Sensitivity Index

In this work, we presented the adaptation of the Relaxation Sensitivity Index (RSI) in the Italian context and the evaluation of its psychometric properties. RSI was developed under the anxiety sensitivity framework as an instrument to assess individual sensitivity (and subsequent fear) to the sensations related to relaxation. To test the original three-dimensional factorial structure proposed by the original authors (Luberto et al., 2021), we conducted a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) on a sample of 485 participants. Results confirmed the factorial structure also in the Italian context, demonstrating good internal consistency and convergent validity. Both the index at the general level and its single dimensions were positively associated with distress-related constructs (i.e., anxiety, depression, negative affect, worry, and boredom intolerance) and negatively with life satisfaction. Furthermore, we confirmed the measurement invariance across gender, showing the broad applicability of the scale. By adapting this index in the Italian context, this study provides a new and valuable instrument for research and clinical application, facilitating professionals and researchers to account for relaxation-related fears. The Italian version of the RSI thus contributes to understanding anxiety mechanisms linked to relaxation.