Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Assessing the Coherence of Parents' Short Narratives Regarding their Child Using the Five-Minute Speech Sample Procedure
Published on: September 19, 2019
Factor structure of the Parenting Sense of Competence scale using a normative sample
1School of Learning and Professional Studies, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Qld 4059, Australia. l.gilmore@qut.edu.au
Background:
The Parenting Sense of Competence (PSOC) scale is a commonly used measure of parental self-efficacy. Previous investigations of the factor structure of this instrument have been unsatisfactory and there is no adequate normative group against which at-risk groups can be compared.
Methods:
A non-clinical sample of 586 mothers and 615 fathers completed the PSOC.
Results:
Factor analysis produced three acceptable factors (Satisfaction, Efficacy, Interest) that accounted for 47.3% and 50.1% of the variance for mothers and fathers respectively. Mothers reported higher efficacy than fathers, and fathers reported greater satisfaction with the parenting role than did mothers.
Conclusion:
The PSOC contains three useful factors that reflect satisfaction with the parental role, parenting efficacy and interest in parenting. The paper provides normative data against which at-risk groups can be compared.
Related Concept Videos
Parenting Styles
Authoritarian Parenting
This style is strict and controlling, with little room for open dialogue. Authoritarian parents demand obedience and often enforce rules with minimal warmth. Children raised this way may lack social skills and initiative, usually comparing themselves to others unfavorably.
Authoritative Parenting
This...
Sources of Self-Esteem I: Family Experience
Self-Report Tests of Personality
Relationship with Parents: Attachment
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Social Foundations of Self II: The Generalized Other

