Comprehensive Assessment Tools for Hispanics: Validation of the Multi-Problem Screening Inventory (MPSI) for Puerto Ricans

Abstract

Objective: This study was intended to validate a Spanish adaptation of the Multi-Problem Screening Inventory (MPSI), which was developed by Hudson and McMurtry for assessment in social work practice. Method: Research was based on the cross-cultural equivalence model and included a content judgment study followed by a field test with a sample of 313 Puerto Rican university students. Results: Findings regarding internal consistency as well as item, factorial, discriminant, and convergent analyses of the Spanish MPSI were similar to those of the English version; items were found to be relevant for Puerto Ricans. Conclusions: Content, technical, and conceptual equivalence of the Spanish and English versions of the MPSI were supported, and thus its valid use in social work practice with the study population.