The German version of the Bergen Yale Sex Addiction Scale (BYSAS): psychometric properties and initial steps of validation

Author(s)
Michaela Hiebler, Hannah Brössler, Raphael Wimmer, Zoe Zipper, Elisa Renner, Jasmin Brouschek, Jürgen Fuchshuber, Aljoscha Neubauer, Human-Friedrich Unterrainer
Abstract

Objectives: This study presents the German version of the Bergen Yale Sex Addiction Scale (BYSAS). The questionnaire screens for different risk levels of problematic excessive sexual behavior (“hypersexuality”). Methods: Based on an online sample (N = 492), a confirmatory factor analysis as well as other reliability analysis were conducted. Demographic characteristics of the sample were also assessed. The BYSAS was validated with psychiatric symptoms. Results: Global fit statistics indicate a one-factorial structure of the BYSAS. Cronbach’s α was 0.77. 2.03% of the study participants were categorized as “high risk” regarding sex addiction. Discussion: Initial results suggest that the German version of the BYSAS is a promising screening instrument for sex addiction. However, further validation in clinical populations is essential to ensure generalizability and clinical utility. In addition, different risk levels as well as the mechanisms underlying hypersexuality need to be examined more closely.

Organisation(s)
Department of Religious Studies
External organisation(s)
Medizinische Universität Graz, Verein Grüner Kreis, Karl-Franzens-Universität Graz, Sigmund Freud Privatuniversität, Medizinische Universität Wien
Journal
BMC Psychology
Volume
13
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s40359-025-02445-1
Publication date
02-2025
Peer reviewed
Yes
Austrian Fields of Science 2012
603909 Religious studies
Keywords
ASJC Scopus subject areas
General Psychology
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
Portal url
https://ucrisportal.univie.ac.at/en/publications/5c0a6558-413e-41b8-a68d-c7f6aa75f196