Peer-reviewed article

Assessment of the psychometric properties of the Turkish version of the child-centrism scale among parents.

Uludaşdemir D, Kızıler E, Temuçin MN, Temuçin M · 11 Aug 2026

Abstract

Background Child-centered parenting reflects the extent to which parents organize emotional, cognitive, and temporal resources around their children's needs and plays an important role in family functioning and child well-being. However, a culturally validated instrument assessing child-centrism among Turkish parents is currently lacking. Purpose This study aimed to adapt the Child-Centrism Scale to Turkish culture and evaluate its psychometric properties. Methods This methodological study was conducted with 238 parents recruited from a hospital in the Black Sea region of Türkiye between August 2025-January 2026. Cross-cultural adaptation included forward-backward translation, expert evaluation, and pilot testing. Construct validity was assessed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. Reliability was evaluated using internal consistency and test-retest methods. Criterion validity was examined through correlations with the Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire. Measurement invariance across child gender was also examined. Results Exploratory factor analysis supported a single-factor structure explaining 53.40% of the total variance. One reverse-coded item demonstrated insufficient factor loading and was removed, resulting in a six-item scale. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated acceptable model fit (χ2/df = 2.67, RMSEA = 0.084, CFI = 0.993, SRMR = 0.038). Internal consistency was high (Cronbach's α = 0.861), and test-retest reliability demonstrated strong temporal stability (r = 0.943, p < .001). Criterion validity findings were consistent with theoretical expectations. Measurement invariance analyses supported equivalence across child gender. Conclusions and practice implications The Turkish version of the Child-Centrism Scale is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing child-centered parenting among Turkish parents and may help pediatric nurses support family-centered care.