Parental Perspectives on Psychological Adjustment: A National Measurement Study in Trinidad and Tobago

• In Event: Roundtable Session 50
  In Roundtable Session: Taking Stock: Engaging Diverse Perspectives on Education at Macro and Micro Levels

Abstract

This study examined the psychometric properties of the Adjustment Scales for Children and Adolescents-Home Edition (ASCA-H) for use in Trinidad and Tobago. The sample was compromised of students (N = 780) attending government and assisted elementary schools. ASCA-H is a parent rating scale composed of behavioral indicators in play, social, and learning contexts. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses revealed two reliable dimensions, Problems in Contexts Requiring Disciplined Behavior and Problems in Contexts Requiring Engaged Behavior. The norming information on the ASCA-H will enable the Ministry of Education identify at-risk students and provide targeted resources to specific situational contexts with parents and other adults. With appropriate interventions, students’ social-emotional problems can be addressed leading to better educational, economic, and social outcomes.

Authors

• Anna Rhoad, University of Pennsylvania

• Paul A. McDermott, University of Pennsylvania

• Jessica Chao, University of Pennsylvania

• Marley Watkins, Baylor University

• Frank C. Worrell, University of California - Berkeley

• Tracey E. Hall, Center for Applied Special Technology