A network cross-cultural validation of the Parenting Sense of Competence between Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal Australians

The Parenting Sense of Competence Scale (PSOC) is the worldwide most used instrument to measure parenting sense of competence worldwide. Considering that cultural differences influence parenting practices, the investigation of cross-cultural validity is required to ensure that PSOC scores can be compared among Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians. To address this research gap, the current study employed network psychometrics to investigate the cross-cultural validity of the PSOC among Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians. The study investigated: (1) measurement invariance; (2) item redundancy; (3) dimensionality; (4) model fit; (5) reliability; and (6) criterion validity. Data was from the South Australian Aboriginal Birth Cohort (SAABC; n=178) and eMums study (n=107). The findings indicated that, after accounting for item redundancy, a revised 14-item version of the PSOC displayed the two theoretical dimensions of Efficacy and Satisfaction. The revised 14-item PSOC also displayed excellent psychometric properties and was cross-culturally valid among Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians.