Reliability and validity of the Japanese version of the Misophonia Questionnaire (MQ)

The Misophonia Questionnaire (MQ) is a self-report measure designed to assess misophonia symptoms. It has been validated in various languages and across different samples. However, no prior research has validated the MQ in Japanese samples. This study aimed to develop a Japanese version of the Misophonia Questionnaire (MQ-J) and examine its psychometric properties. This study confirmed the score distribution, internal consistency, and factor structure in a Japanese sample via an online survey. We also compared the MQ-J scores between individuals with misophonia symptoms and control participants. Additionally, we examined the relationships between the MQ-J and sensory processing issues, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, anxiety, depressive symptoms, and difficulties in daily life. Results demonstrated excellent internal consistency (α = .93) for the MQ-J, with significantly higher scores in the misophonia group compared with the control group. Furthermore, significant positive correlations were observed with sensory processing problems, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, anxiety, depressive symptoms, and difficulties in daily life. These findings supported the validity and reliability of the MQ-J. Hence, the MQ-J was a valuable tool for assessing misophonia symptoms in Japanese adults.