Extended Child Adjustment and Parent Efficacy Scale (CAPES): inclusion of the peer relationship problems subscale and updated psychometric properties

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective The current study aimed to validate an extended version of a frequently used parent-report measure of child functioning and parent self-efficacy, the Child Adjustment and Parent Efficacy Scale (CAPES). Method A 5-item peer relationship problems subscale was developed to address the original measure’s limitation in assessing the quality of children’s peer relationships. Three additional items were added to the parent self-efficacy subscale that measures parents’ confidence in supporting children to manage peer relationship problems. Utilising data from 2,272 Australian parents of primary-school-aged children, we evaluated the psychometric properties of the extended CAPES through conducting a confirmatory factor analysis, correlational analyses of relevant measures, and calculations of internal consistency. Results A three-factor structure of the child adjustment subscale was supported, which included three subscales, namely the original emotional maladjustment subscale, the original behavioural problems subscale, and the newly developed peer relationship problems subscale. The one-factor structure of the updated parent self-efficacy subscale was also supported. All subscales displayed acceptable to excellent internal consistency, and significant correlations with relevant measures. Conclusions The extended CAPES demonstrated good validity, reliability, and readability in this initial validation study. It has great potential to be used in both research and clinical practice.