Psychometric Properties of the Japanese Version of the Beliefs about Voices Questionnaire-Revised

Objective: This preliminary study tested the validity and value of the Beliefs about Voices Questionnaire-Revised as an assessment tool in a Japanese-language version (JBAVQ-R). Design, Material and Method: Thirty patients meeting a diagnosis of DSM-IV schizophrenia were assessed using the JBAVQ-R. Results: Cronbach's alpha for five sub-scales in the JBAVQ-R ranged from 0.75 to 0.85. A positive relationship was found between 'malevolence' and 'resistance', and between 'benevolence' and 'engagement', with all other correlations between these sub-scales being negative. 'Omnipotence' was related to 'malevolence' and 'resistance'. In addition, there was a positive relationship between Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale scores and 'resistance', and between Spielberger's State-Trait Anxiety Inventory state scores and 'malevolence', and 'omnipotence'. Conclusion: The JBAVQ-R is indicated to be a practical and reliable scale as is the original one.