Initial comparison of psychometric properties of the Japanese Parenting Style Scale (JPSS) in Indonesia and Japan

Parenting style is crucial in shaping children's development, particularly during early childhood. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the psychometric properties of the Japanese Parenting Style Scale (JPSS) and its applicability in cross-cultural contexts, specifically among Indonesian and Japanese mothers. JPSS, comprising four dimensions, namely warmth, hostility, permissiveness, and harsh control, was administered to 1095 female participants across the countries. Using Rasch analysis with the Rating Scale Model (RSM), key measurement assumptions, including unidimensionality, local independence, monotonicity, and differential item functioning (DIF) were examined. The results confirmed the unidimensionality and local independence of all subscales. Item and person statistics met acceptable thresholds, and reliability, as well as separation indices, ranged from good to excellent. However, some disparities in rating scale functionality were observed between the two cultural groups, with Indonesian participants showing a tendency to select extreme response options. DIF analysis identified cross-cultural differences in item functioning, particularly in warmth and harsh control subscales. These results affirm the importance of cultural adaptation when applying parenting measurement tools developed across diverse contexts. JPSS shows robust psychometric properties, but cultural nuances need to be considered for accurate interpretation and use in diverse populations.