Psychometric Properties of the Autism Parenting Stress Index (APSI)
摘要
The current study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Autism Parenting Stress Index (APSI), a brief measure of caregiver stress specific to autism, in a diverse sample of caregivers with children across a wide age range. Specifically, the study assessed the APSI’s internal consistency, factor structure, test–retest reliability, and convergent validity with the Parenting Stress Index, Fourth Edition (PSI-4).
MethodsData were collected from 325 caregivers of children diagnosed with or at-risk for ASD, or who had a sibling with ASD. Participants completed the APSI before and after a summer camp program. A subsample also completed the PSI-4. Analyses include descriptive statistics, subgroup comparisons, Cronbach’s alpha, exploratory factor analysis, test–retest correlations, and correlations with PSI-4 scores.
ResultsOverall, results suggest that the APSI provided adequately reliable scores with this sample of caregivers/children with an internal consistency of 0.87. Exploratory factor analysis supported a three-factor structure: comorbid behaviors, core autism symptoms, and comorbid physical issues. Test–retest reliability over an average of 11 weeks was moderate (r = .59, p < .001). APSI Total Scores were significantly correlated with PSI-4 Child, Parent, and Total Stress scores, supporting convergent validity. Additionally, higher APSI scores were associated with male child gender and older age.
ConclusionThe results of this study, in addition to previous research, provide support for the APSI as a psychometrically robust measure for assessing caregiver stress in families with children with autism and should be leveraged as a tool to improve autism services and future research.