KJCKorea
Journal Central

This study aimed to develop and validate a Six-Factor Parenting Attitudes Scale for preschool caregivers. Based on the self-determination theory (SDT), six parenting attitudes that support or frustrate children's needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness were organized into six subfactors of autonomy support, control, structure, inconsistency, warmth, and rejection. After reviewing relevant theories and previous studies, 79 initial items were developed and 63 preliminary items were selected. Exploratory factor analysis was used involving 592 mothers of pre-school children, resulting in 30 items selected for six factors. To validate this scale, we conducted confirmatory factor analysis and correlation analysis of 549 mothers. The results showed that the Six-Factor Parenting Attitudes Scale is a reliable and valid measure of parent-reported parenting attitudes. This study developed a scale in a rational-empirical manner based on the self-determination theory, which would be useful in clinical and educational settings to support the development and adjustment of young children.

Genetics play a significant role in early temperament. However, recent studies suggest the impact of social and cultural factors on shaping early temperament. This possibility has not been explored with Korean infants. To explore potential environmental effects, we compared two sets of parental reports on the Infant Temperament Questionnaire: (1) reports we collected between 2014-2023 and (2) those reported on Wui (1994). Specifically, we explored changes over time and the impact of social isolation during COVID-19 (2020-2022). Results showed increased positive emotionality and distractibility, with decreases in approaching/withdrawal and negative emotionality compared to Wui (1994). Attention persistence varied by age and sex, while activity remained stable. Negative emotionality was higher during COVID-19. These findings suggest that environmental factors and changes in parental sensitivity may influence perceptions of infant temperament, highlighting the need to further illuminate potential social and cultural influences on parents’ values.

This study aimed to translate and validate the Aging Perceptions Questionnaire (APQ) developed by Barker et al. (2007), which measures perceptions of an individual's aging experience across multiple dimensions. An exploratory factor analysis with 350 older adults aged 60 and above identified 25 items and seven factors (timeline chronic, timeline cyclical, consequences positive, consequences negative, control positive, control negative, and emotional representations) consistent with the original scale. A confirmatory factor analysis with 410 older adults further validated this 7-factor, 25-item model. In addition, significant correlations were found between the K-APQ and other relevant measures, including attitude toward aging (ATOA), quality of life, and depression. Lastly, based on the results of this study, limitations and suggestions for further research are discussed.