Factorial dimensions of the Revised Behavior Problem Checklist: replication and validation within a kindergarten...

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Psychometric Assessment

Background:

• The Revised Behavior Problem Checklist (RBPC) is a tool for assessing behavioral issues in children.
• Understanding the factor structure of the RBPC is crucial for its accurate application in diverse populations.
• Previous research has established the utility of the RBPC in various age groups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the factor structure of the RBPC in a large sample of kindergarten children.
• To assess the consistency of the RBPC's factor structure across gender and risk status.
• To evaluate the divergent validity of RBPC dimensions with external criteria.

Main Methods:

• A large sample of suburban kindergarten children was utilized.
• Teacher ratings on the RBPC were analyzed using principal component analysis.
• Divergent validity was assessed using alternative behavior ratings, cognitive functioning, and academic achievement measures.

Main Results:

• Teacher-rated dimensions closely replicated previous findings and revealed a new 'Unmotivated-Isolated' factor.
• The factor structure remained consistent across gender and risk status subgroups.
• Evidence for divergent validity was found for Conduct Disorder and Attention Problems-Immaturity dimensions.
• Parent-rated components showed less clear validation, with modest parent-teacher agreement.

Conclusions:

• The RBPC demonstrates potential for assessing preschool-aged children.
• Distinct externalizing dimensions, such as inattentive versus conduct-disordered behavior, are identifiable at this age.
• Further research may refine parent-rated scales and explore cross-informant agreement.