LAUSR

Objectives: This investigation sought to test the construct validity of the irrational performance beliefs inventory (iPBI) in a sample of amateur and semi‐professional athletes. Method: In total, 550 athletes (312 men, 212 women, Mage = 38.04 ± 13.80 years) completed the iPBI and demographic questions at a single time point. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis showed lower than acceptable fit indices for the 28‐item iPBI (comparative fit index [CFI] = 0.84). After removal of potential problem items, a 20‐item version (iPBI‐2) was developed (CFI = 0.91). Results showed that amateur athletes scored higher than semi‐professional athletes on primary irrational beliefs and low frustration tolerance, whereas semi‐professional athletes scored higher than amateur athletes on depreciation. Conclusions: This study provides initial evidence of construct validity for a 20‐item version of the iPBI in an athletic sample, and shows medium effect size differences in irrational beliefs between amateur and semi‐professional athletes. HighlightsCFA showed lower than acceptable fit indices for 28‐item iPBI.A 20‐item version (iPBI‐2) was developed and tested.The iPBI‐2 demonstrated acceptable fit indices.The iPBI‐2 demonstrated comparable concurrent validity to the 28‐item iPBI.Differences in irrational beliefs between sexes and athlete levels also emerged.