Validation of the Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology Brief Report (HiTOP-BR) in Two German-Speaking Samples

The Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology Brief Report (HiTOP-BR) is a 45-item self-report inventory developed to assess all six higher-order spectra of psychopathology derived from the HiTOP model. This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the HiTOP-BR in two German-speaking samples: a non-clinical community sample (N = 1,049) and a clinical sample seeking outpatient psychotherapy (N = 601). Confirmatory factor analyses and exploratory factor analyses with target rotation supported the hypothesized six-factor structure across both samples, although observed cross-loadings suggested scope for item refinement. Scalar measurement invariance was established between the clinical and non-clinical sample. Scale scores showed acceptable to good reliability (ω = .77–.88). Convergent and discriminant validity were examined via correlations with established measures of symptoms, maladaptive personality traits, and impairments in personality functioning. As hypothesized, the HiTOP-BR spectra showed the expected associations with corresponding constructs. HiTOP-BR scales further predicted sickness-related work absence beyond established measures, with incremental validity analyses demonstrating additional explained variance in sick days beyond the Patient Health Questionnaire scales. Overall, the HiTOP-BR represents a reliable and valid screening tool, offering a time-efficient way for dimensional psychopathology assessment. Further cross-cultural replication and normative data are needed to optimize its interpretability and integration into routine assessment procedures.