Measuring CHAOS? Evaluating the Short-form Confusion, Hubbub and Order Scale

The Confusion, Hubbub and Order Scale (CHAOS) – short form is a survey tool intended to capture information about home environments. It widely used in studies of child adolescent development psychopathology, particularly twin studies. original long the scale comprised 15 items was validated sample infants 1980s. developed late 1990s contains six items, including four from scale, two new items. This has not been focus this study. We use five samples (N=10,898) Australia, UK, USA, examine measurement properties CHAOS form. first compare alternate confirmatory factor models for each group; we next test between-group configural, metric scalar invariance; finally, predictive validity under different conditions. find evidence that two-factor configuration more appropriate than commonly one-factor model. Second, non-invariance across groups at invariance step, with performing differently depending on sample. By contrast longitudinal three multi-wave data collection CHAOS. Finally, report inconsistent results tests using family-level socioeconomic status academic achievement as criterion variables. caution continued short-form its current recommend future revisions developmental research.