Validating the Teacher Version of Pediatric Symptom Checklist–17 in Chinese Elementary Schools

Abstract

Before adopting a scale for a new culture, researchers should conduct systematic translation procedures and evaluations to ensure its psychometric quality. The Pediatric Symptom Checklist–17 (PSC-17) is a brief and valid scale developed by U.S. researchers to evaluate children’s emotional, attentional, and behavioral problems. This study aimed to adapt the PSC-17 to a Chinese version for use in elementary school settings. In this process, 74 teachers rated 666 students using the PSC-17. These students were also assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and additional questions (e.g., teachers’ referral status and demographic information). The scale was successfully translated into simplified Chinese using a standard procedure. Factor analysis supported a general factor model for the PSC-17. Furthermore, decent criterion validity and internal consistency were verified. Finally, a cut-off score of 17 was established, slightly higher than the original cut-off score of 15. We concluded that the PSC-17 is a high-quality screening tool in Chinese elementary schools. The findings are particularly relevant to researchers investigating children’s emotional, attentional, and behavioral development within the Chinese cultural context.