The factor structure of the barriers to treatment participation scale (BTPS): implications for future barriers scale development.

Untreated mental disorder is a major problem, and barriers to care are not well understood. Four hundred and sixty-two mothers bringing children to community mental health centers reported barriers on the BTPS. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed on the first split-half sample to identify factor structure. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed on the remaining half sample using structural equation modeling. EFA revealed two factors measuring "treatment expectations" and "external demands." CFA revealed good model fit for this two-factor solution. This analysis contributes to ongoing empirical validation of barriers measures in community settings, emphasizing the development of a short, community applicable measure.