Psychometric Properties of the Multidimensional Alcohol Craving Scale in Chilean Adult Patients: Measurement Invariance Across Age, Gender, and Type of Treatment

The Multidimensional Alcohol Craving Scale (MACS) assesses the subjective experience of urges to use alcohol during abstinence, a key factor in predicting relapse. This study aimed to adapt the MACS for the Chilean population and evaluate its psychometric properties and measurement invariance. Data from 365 adult patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) in outpatient or residential treatment were analyzed. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) tested one- and two-factor models, with and without an exploratory item. Measurement invariance across age, gender, and type of treatment was evaluated. Fit indices were strong for both models, though reliability and validity favored a one-factor solution, differing from the original two-factor model. Craving showed significant positive correlations with impulsivity, withdrawal symptoms (physical r = 0.55; psychological r = 0.57), and problematic alcohol use (r = 0.58). Invariance testing showed no differences between age, gender, and treatment settings groups. The MACS appears to be a valid and reliable one-factor measure of craving among Chilean adults in AUD treatment.