Parent Problem Checklist: Tool for assessing parent conflict

Abstract

This study explored the psychometric properties of the Parent Problem Checklist (PPC), a measure of parental conflict over child-rearing issues. Participants were a clinical sample of 391 parents of children aged 0–18 years presenting at a university paediatric psychology clinic for intervention in relation to their child's behavioural or emotional problems. Exploratory factor analysis was done on the PPC Extent scale. It provided support for a revised three-factor model including dimensions of consistency in discipline, child care, and family processes. Modifications that could enhance the measures are discussed. The present results have implications for examining different aspects of parent conflict, and the assessment of parenting conflict in clinical practice. The PPC provides a valid and reliable means of assessing interparent conflict about child behaviour and parenting. Directions for further research are highlighted.

Key words:

• Parental conflict
• parenting
• psychometric properties