Development and Validation of a 12-Item Form of the Participation Questionnaire for Preschoolers

Aims: To develop and validate the 12-item short form of the Participation Questionnaire for Preschoolers (PQP-12). Methods: In a cross-sectional study (n = 164 aged 3-6 years), 12 items (three per factor) were selected based on item-total correlations while retaining the four-factor structure; confirmatory factor, internal consistency, and construct validity analyses were conducted. In a cohort study (n = 275 aged 5-6 years), confirmatory factor and internal consistency analyses were reperformed in an independent sample, and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficients [ICCs]), measurement error (standard error of measurement [SEM], minimal detectable change [MDC]), and responsiveness were examined. Results: The four-factor model fit well in both samples (comparative fit index = 0.999/0.996) and was superior to the one-factor model. Cronbach's α was 0.75 and 0.80 (subscales: 0.46-0.92), with Factor 2's low value likely reflecting ceiling effects in the older sample. The PQP-12 correlated strongly with the original PQP (r = 0.86-0.95); 78% of construct-validity hypotheses and 80% of responsiveness hypotheses were supported. Test-retest reliability was good (ICC = 0.79-0.90), with SEM and MDC being reported. Conclusion: The PQP-12 preserves the original PQP's structure and measurement properties while reducing respondent burden.