Measuring Our Impact: Validation of a Parenting Self-Efficacy Outcome Tool for Caregivers Participating in Developmental Interventions

Background: Evidence suggests that higher levels of parenting self-efficacy (PSE) result in positive caregiver–child interactions and improved developmental outcomes for children. Currently, there are few PSE tools specific to the domain of parenting a child with a developmental concern that are also applicable to a wide clinical cohort and range of multidisciplinary services. Aim: This study aimed to develop and validate an outcome measurement tool to determine change in PSE for caregivers who participate in developmental interventions with their child. The development of a minimal clinically important difference (MCID) value was a secondary aim. Methods: Based on existing literature, and clinician and consumer consultation, the SET and GO, a parenting Self-Efficacy Tool for Gathering Outcomes of developmental interventions, was developed. This nine-item retrospective pretest-posttest scale was validated with 204 caregivers at service discharge. Participants were predominantly mothers (91.7%) caring for children (average age of 5.7 years) presenting with a range of developmental concerns who had participated in intervention with one or more of a range of clinical disciplines. Results: Exploratory factor analysis indicated that the SET and GO is a unidimensional tool with good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.94 and 0.93), strong test–retest reliability (quadratic weighted kappa = 0.80 and 0.76), and adequate construct validity. Ceiling effects were noted in some individual item “now” scores. A preliminary MCID value of ≥ 7 was established using a distribution-based method. Conclusion: The SET and GO is a valid and reliable outcome measurement tool suitable for use with a wide range of caregivers taking part in developmental interventions with their child. Future research with a larger sample will allow investigations into the validity of using the tool with specific populations, and further refinement of the MCID value. Keywords: child development, neurodevelopmental conditions, outcome measurement tool, patient reported outcome measure, PROM, multidisciplinary, allied health