Preliminary results of the Macedonian-adapted version of ages and stages developmental questionnaires

Abstract

Context: Early detection of developmental problems is critical, and interventions are more effective when they are carried out early in a child's life. In Macedonia, there are only four centers providing early intervention services. Aims: In this research, we determined the reliability of the translation and adaptation of Ages and Stages Questionnaires 3rd edition (ASQ-3-M) for assessment of children aged 3–5 years old in Macedonia, and reported preliminary results of the gender differences in the development. Materials and Methods: ASQ-3-M was completed by 165 parents and 40 educators in seven kindergarten classrooms. Children were 3–5 years old. Statistical Analysis Used: Cronbach's alpha, Intraclass Correlation coefficient (ICC), and interrater reliability (IRR) were used to assess ASQ-3-M psychometric properties. The Bayesian t-test was performed to estimate the difference in means between males and females. Results: The Cronbach's alpha ranged from 0.65 to 0.87. The overall ICC was 0.89 (ranged from 0.8 to 0.95), which indicates a strong to almost perfect strength of agreement between test-retest. IRR correlation revealed an average of 0.88 (ranged from 0.74 to 0.95), suggesting that ASQ-3-M is reliable and stable. Conclusions: The results from the comparison between males and females on all dimensions of ASQ-3-M were not statistically significant (BF10 <3), indicating no significant gender difference. That said, the ASQ-3 is recommended for routine use in screening children aged 3–5 years old.