Reliability and validity of the Paediatric Volitional Questionnaire - Chinese version.

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to examine the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Paediatric Volitional Questionnaire (PVQ-C) for use amongst preschoolers in Taiwan. METHODS Forty preschoolers with developmental delays were randomly selected from northern Taiwan, along with another 40 typically developing preschoolers. The data was analysed using Rasch measurement model for construct validity and classical test theory for item reliability, intra- and inter-rater reliability, and convergent validity. RESULTS The results indicated the PVQ items of PVQ-C fit into a unidimensional continuum of volition (logit -6.63~3.05) with 2 items representing differential item functioning for diagnostic group. The person-fit statistics showed that 83% participants' response could be appropriately estimated and stratified (separation index = 1.86). Using a modified 3-point rating scale resulted in acceptable item reliability (0.97), intra-rater reliability (0.412-1.0), 86% PVQ items in test-retest reliability > 0.4, and convergent validity (r = 0.562-0.656). CONCLUSIONS The PVQ-C is regarded as a reliable and valid instrument for assessing the volitional status of children, as a reference for subsequent clinical judgement, and for client-centred intervention programmes and treatment effects.