Measurement Properties of the Spanish Version of the Engagement in Meaningful Activities Survey in Parents of Children with Developmental Challenges

Abstract

Parents of children with developmental challenges often face constraints that reduce engagement in meaningful activities (MA). This study evaluated the measurement properties of the Spanish version of the Engagement in Meaningful Activities Survey (EMAS) in this population. Methods A convenience sample of 688 Spanish parents (468 mothers, 220 fathers) of children with developmental challenges completed the Spanish EMAS, Occupational Balance Questionnaire (OBQ), Parental Stress Scale (PSS; Baby’s Rewards [PSS-BR] and Stressors [PSS-S]), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-A, HADS-D), and Psychological Well-Being Scale (PWBS). Internal consistency, test-retest reliability, structural, and construct validity were examined. Consumer and Community Involvement There was no consumer or community involvement in this study. Results EMAS scores averaged 31.1 (standard deviation [SD] = 7.1) for mothers and 33.4 (SD = 6.4) for fathers, with no floor or ceiling effects. Internal consistency was high (α = 0.88 for mothers; α =0 .86 for fathers). Test-retest reliability in mothers (n = 75) was moderate (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.59, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.42, 0.72; rs =0 .62). A two-factor structure showed acceptable fit. Construct validity was supported through correlations with OBQ (rsm [mothers] = 0.61; rsf [fathers] = 0.63), HADS-A (rsm = -0.41; rsf = -0.36), HADS-D (rsm = -0.50; rsf = -0.47), PSS-BR (rsm = 0.37; rsf = 0.31), PSS-S (rsm = -0.25; rsf = -0.26), and PWBS (rsm = 0.46; rsf = 0.52). Conclusion The Spanish EMAS shows robust measurement properties for assessing engagement in MA among parents of children with developmental challenges. Its use may support family-centred interventions and research.