Understanding the Common Structure of Internalizing Disorders and Cognitive Vulnerabilities

This study examines the structure of internalizing symptoms and their cognitive vulnerabilities within the Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) framework. The study has three main aims: (1) to adapt and validate the Serbian version of the Inventory of Depression and Anxiety Symptoms–II (IDAS-II), (2) to test competing latent structural models of IDAS-II, and (3) to examine the predictive role of transdiagnostic cognitive vulnerability factors in relation to higher-order dimensions of anxiety and mood symptoms. The IDAS-II will be translated into Serbian using a forward–backward translation procedure. Its latent structure will be examined using structural equation modeling by testing correlated factors, hierarchical, and bifactor models. In addition, the Looming Vulnerability Distortions Questionnaire (LVDQ) will be adapted into Serbian and its latent structure evaluated. The central analytical focus is on examining anxiety sensitivity, intolerance of uncertainty, looming cognitive style, and ruminative thinking style as transdiagnostic cognitive vulnerabilities. These variables will be specified as manifest predictors of the higher-order IDAS-II dimensions (obsessions/fear, distress, and positive mood) in a structural equation model, with correlations among vulnerability factors included. Convergent validity of IDAS-II will be examined using established measures of anxiety, depression, and affect. The study uses a cross-sectional design with an adult Serbian-speaking sample.