Validation of the Dutch version of the Multidimensional Adolescent Functioning Scale (MAFS)

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Adolescent Health
• Psychometrics

Background:

• The Multidimensional Adolescent Functioning Scale (MAFS) is a 23-item self-report measure.
• It assesses psychosocial functioning across general, family, and peer domains in adolescents (12-17 years).
• The original English version exhibits strong psychometric properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To translate the MAFS into Dutch.
• To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Dutch version of the MAFS.

Main Methods:

• The Dutch MAFS was administered to 397 adolescents (12-17 years) in school settings.
• Psychometric analyses included internal consistency, factor structure, and convergent/divergent validity.
• Correlations with measures of functioning, psychopathology, and well-being were examined.

Main Results:

• A hierarchical/bifactor model best fit the data, indicating a general functioning factor and three specific domain factors.
• The Dutch MAFS demonstrated good internal consistency (total score α=0.87; subscales α=0.74-0.80).
• Convergent and divergent validity were supported by expected correlations with other measures.

Conclusions:

• The Dutch MAFS is a psychometrically sound instrument for assessing psychosocial functioning in Dutch adolescents.
• The scale is suitable for use in general population samples aged 12-17.
• The MAFS is freely accessible and easy to administer.