The Multiperspective Parent-Child Relationship Questionnaire (M-PCR)

Abstract

The Multiperspective Parent-Child Relationship Questionnaire (M-PCR) Parent-child relationship quality may considerably impact child mental health. Yet many instruments apply effortful behavioral observation methods. In this paper we aim to develop a multiperspective questionnaire of parent-child relationships. Several experts in the field of parent-child interaction treatment generated 18 items to assess aspects of the parent-child relationship. Mothers, therapists and assistant therapists rated 129 mother-child dyads that were treated at the Child Psychiatric Family Day Hospital for preschool children in Münster, Germany at the beginning and again at the end of treatment. For validity purposes, a global measure of relationship quality (PIRGAS) and measures of maternal psychopathology (SCL-90-R) and child behavior problems (CBCL/1.5-5; C-TRF/1.5-5) completed the assessment.Six principal component analyses and subsequent oblique rotation revealed a stable patternof two interpretable factors labeled as "Affective Bond" and "Functional-Conflict" with highinternal consistency and retest-reliability. Validity of the MEK scales was supported by significant correlations with the global rating of relationship quality PIRGAS by experts (therapistsand assistant therapists) and measures of maternal and child psychopathology, particularlyexternalizing problems, and therapy outcome. The MEK appears as a valid, reliable and user-friendly instrument for assessing the quality of parent-child relationship in clinical contextsfrom different perspectives.