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Psychometric Properties and Norms of the Family Needs Scale

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Abstract

We studied 205 low-income families, using the Family Needs Scale (FNS). Factor analysis of the FNS data resulted on a 7-factor solution with high internal consistency within the various subscales. We provide normative scores based on the factor structure of the FNS. A total of 53 parents completed the FNS on two occasions with an average of four weeks between these two ratings. In general, the test-retest reliabilities were low to moderate. A total of 61 pairs of parents independently rated their families with the FNS. Again, agreement between raters was low to moderate. Several factors that may have detracted from better test-retest and interrater reliability were identified. Our data point to the need for more psychometric studies with the FNS.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Developmental Disabilities, UCEDD, University of Cincinnati, Ohio

    Barbara Hanley (Field Service Associate Professor of Pediatrics)

  2. Center for Development and Learning UCEDD, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC

    Marc J. Tassé (Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry)

  3. Nisonger Center UCEDD, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH

    Michael G. Aman (Professor of Psychiatry and Psychology)

  4. Nisonger Center UCEDD, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH

    Pamela Pace (Research Assistant)

Authors
  1. Barbara Hanley
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  2. Marc J. Tassé
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  3. Michael G. Aman
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  4. Pamela Pace
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Hanley, B., Tassé, M.J., Aman, M.G. et al. Psychometric Properties and Norms of the Family Needs Scale. Journal of Child and Family Studies 12, 41–48 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021354008653

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021354008653

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