The Psychometric Properties of the Polish Version of the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II (AAQ-II)

This research demonstrates the Polish adaptation of Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II (AAQ-II). Results collected from two samples (N1=602, N2=70) show stable structure, strong reliability and convergent, discriminant and incremental validity. Cronbach’s alpha for the first sample was .938 [CI (.912; .958)] and for the second .910 [CI (.874; .939)] with test-retest reliability r = .733 [CI (.602; .825)]. These results suggest that it can be used as a psychological flexibility measure in Poland. Moreover, contrary to leading psychological tests used in Poland, the use of the AAQ-II is free of charge, further facilitating both its usage both in therapy practice and in research. The research also furthers the knowledge about the nature of psychological flexibility and effective coping. Obtained results support the discrepancy between the functional assessment of avoidance as measured by the AAQ-II and topographically-categorized examples of avoidance as measured by Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations, with only the former having a relation to overall functioning. The research shows that avoidant behaviors bear no meaningful relation to the satisfaction with life or the presence of clinical issues, but they start to become an issue when they disconnect the person from pursuing valued directions in life