The Development of Caregivers’ Perceived Employment-Related Transition Difficulties Scale (CPTDS)

Background/Objectives: The transition to adulthood is a challenging period for young people with intellectual disabilities and their families. Despite caregivers playing a key role in this process, no validated instrument exists to assess caregivers’ perceptions of employment-related transition difficulties. This study aimed to develop and validate the Caregiver Perceived Employment-related Transition Difficulties Scale (CPTDS). Methods: A sequential exploratory mixed-method design was adopted. Qualitative interviews and a literature review informed item development. Subsequently, 251 caregivers of young people with intellectual disabilities attending special schools in Hong Kong completed the questionnaire. Exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and reliability and validity testing were conducted. Results: The final CPTDS consisted of 11 items forming a unidimensional scale. The scale demonstrated excellent internal consistency and satisfactory validity. Higher CPTDS scores were significantly associated with greater caregiver burden. Caregivers with greater caregiving responsibilities also reported higher levels of caregivers’ perceived employment-related transition difficulties. Conclusions: The CPTDS is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing caregivers’ perceived employment-related transition difficulties. The scale may assist in identifying caregiver concerns, informing transition planning, and evaluating employment-related transition services and interventions.