Validation of the Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire in Indian Sample

Baumrind has conceptualized parenting styles and has proposed a three-factor higher-order model that includes authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive styles. This study aimed to examine the factor structure and psychometric properties of the 32 items short version of the Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire (PSDQ). Through purposive sampling, data were obtained from 500 parents of adolescents in the age range 10-15 years. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were performed. Our findings did not support the higher-order model for the PSDQ. Furthermore, the two-factor model for PSDQ comprising authoritative (15 items) and authoritarian (10 items) was a better fit for the Indian sample. Additionally, the criteria for internal consistency reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity were adequate. The findings of the study contribute to existing literature. For the assessment of parenting styles, the researchers and various mental health professionals may rely on this PSDQ validated in India.