Logo image
Toward a Dimensional Approach of Hypersomnolence: Psychometric Validation of the French Version of the Hypersomnia Severity Index in a National Quota-Based Sample of the General Population

Toward a Dimensional Approach of Hypersomnolence: Psychometric Validation of the French Version of the Hypersomnia Severity Index in a National Quota-Based Sample of the General Population

Benjamin Massiah, Julien Coelho, Marc Rey, Marie-Françoise Vecchierini, Sarah Hartley, Pierre-Alexis Geoffroy, Clélia Quiles, Laure Peter-Derex, Aileen Mcgonigal, Isabelle Lambert, …
Sleep Epidemiology
06/2026
: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleepe.2026.100146
Drowsiness HSI General Population Sleep Health Psychometric Validation Sleepiness Hypersomnolence
The Hypersomnia Severity Index (HSI) is a self-report instrument assessing hypersomnolence using a dimensional approach based on two factors: symptoms and distress/impairment. This study aimed to translate, adapt, and validate the French version of the HSI in a large quota-based sample of the French general population, and to propose an original dimensional visualization of hypersomnolence profiles. Following a forward–backward translation procedure, the French HSI was administered to 1,000 adults aged 18–65 from the general French population. Internal consistency and structural validity were assessed using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and exploratory factor analysis (EFA) when necessary. External validity was examined through correlations with validated self-report measures of hypersomnolence and sleep-related parameters. An original polar chart visualization was developed to represent item-level HSI profiles. The French HSI demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.82). CFA did not confirm an adequate fit for the original two-factor model. EFA confirmed the distress/impairment factor but split the symptoms factor into two subfactors, labeled “sleepiness symptoms” and “alertness symptoms.” HSI scores were significantly correlated with established hypersomnolence and sleep-related measures, supporting convergent validity. Polar chart visualizations revealed distinct symptom patterns across subgroups, supporting the identification of dimensional hypersomnolence symptom profiles. The French version of the HSI is a reliable and clinically meaningful instrument for the dimensional assessment of hypersomnolence. Its cross-cultural validation supports its use in research and clinical practice. The HSI provides a multidimensional and easily administered measure, with potential utility for symptom profiling and monitoring hypersomnolence. Future studies should examine its longitudinal sensitivity and prognostic value.

(2)

url
Find in HAL
url
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleepe.2026.100146
Published (Version of record)
1
Logo image
Logo image