Psychometric Properties of the Russian-Language Version of the Early Parental Attitudes Questionnaire (EPAQ) Designed to Assess Intuitive Theories of Parenting

Abstract

Psychometric properties of the Russian-language version of the Early Parental Attitudes Questionnaire (EPAQ), an instrument for assessing intuitive theories of parenting, were tested on 1,928 parents of children aged 1–7. Assessment of the questionnaire’s reliability (internal consistency) using the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient showed that the scales were not homogeneous. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed that the data obtained in the Russian sample was only partially consistent with the original three-scale model obtained in American parents. The questionnaire’s factor structure, determined using the exploratory factor analysis, was interpreted from the perspective of the adults’ beliefs on parenting and child development that are widespread in Russia. Additional adaptation is needed to improve the reliability of the Russian-language version of the questionnaire and to allow its further use.

Keywords

• learning
• preschool children
• intuitive theories of parenting
• parent-child-relationship
• rearing
• cultural differences