Dimensionality and concurrent validity of the Handler DAP Anxiety Index

Abstract

The Handler Anxiety Index was developed to provide a measure of anxiety from the Draw-A-Person (DAP) protocol. The present study examined the dimensionality and concurrent validity of the Handler Index against two criteria, clinical diagnosis and the 16 PF anxiety scales. The results were as follows: (a) The median reliability estimate for the 20 Handler items was 0.97, (b) The Handler items were found to be heterogeneous with respect to item-total structure and saturation with drawing quality, (c) Factor analysis of the Handler Index was produced six orthogonal dimensions: Poor Quality, Correction, Three-Dimensionality, Expansion-Constriction, Overinclusiveness, and Inadequate Control, and (d) There was no pattern of significant relationships in the correlations of the six Handler factors with the two independent anxiety criteria. In summary, the results of the investigation suggest that there are no subsets of drawing elements that are valid indicators of anxiety.