The Parental Dental Concerns Scale (PDCS): its development and initial psychometric properties

Abstract

To assess the validity and reliability of a Parental Dental Concerns Scale (PDCS) to identify parents unable to access preventive dental care for their children. Two studies were conducted. In Study One, a purposive convenience sample of 399 Scottish parents answered questions on going to the dentist, family life and demographics. Parents were retested eight weeks later. In Study Two, 574 Scottish parents participating in a preventive oral health programme were posted the same questionnaire. Information on child dental attendance was gained from dental records. Data were analysed using exploratory (EFA) and confirmatory (CFA) factor analysis. Internal consistency and test-retest correlations provided reliability estimates. Validity was assessed with confirmatory factor analysis, correlations and independent t-tests. EFA indicated that the PDCS had a four factor structure, supported by a subsequent CFA. The PDCS and its four subscales had good internal consistency, concurrent validity and test-retest reliability. Further work is required to confirm the scale's predictive validity in discriminating between children and parents who did and did not attend the dental practice. The PDCS is a reliable scale, which demonstrates good construct validity. Further testing is required to confirm its predictive validity.