Problematic Technology Use Scale for Young Children (PTUS-YC): Validity and Reliability Study

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a measurement tool to identify preschool children’s problematic technology use levels and contribute to Turkish literature. The study group included in the exploratory factor analysis was composed of 357 voluntary children in the preschool period. The study group included in the confirmatory factor analysis, proximal validity analysis, item discrimination analysis, and reliability analysis was composed of a total of 402 parents. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted to present the factor structure of PTUS-YC. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed to test the model obtained with EFA. Item discrimination values obtained as a result of the independent sample t-test was investigated to determine the internal validity of the measurement tool. Furthermore, the correlation values between PTUS-YC items and the relevant factors and the complete measurement tool were calculated, and total item correlation was used to test whether each item served a common purpose. In addition, CR and AVE values were examined in the proximal validity analysis conducted for PTUS-YC. Reliability analysis for PTUS-YC was performed using Cronbach alpha internal consistency coefficient and McDonald's Omega coefficient methods. As a result of the exploratory factor analysis, a 4-factor structure that explained 60.392% of the total variance was obtained: continuity of use, resistance to control, effects on development and deprivation-escape. Based on the results, PTUS-YC was a valid and reliable measurement tool that can be used to determine preschool children's problematic technology use levels.