A Psychometric Evaluation of the Quality of Life for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Scale

Our purpose in this study was to validate the Quality of Life for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder scale. We first conducted an exploratory factor analysis to examine the factor structure. Results suggested that a three-factor model (Interpersonal Relationships, Self-Determination, and Emotional Well-Being) should be retained. Next, we conducted a confirmatory factor analysis to compare a higher-order factor model and additional models. Results showed acceptable model fit for the higher-order factor model. The scale had excellent reliability (alpha = .90) for the overall scale and for the three subscales (Interpersonal Relationships, alpha = .87; Self-Determination, alpha = .81; and Emotional Well-Being, alpha = .66). The 16-item scale showed convergent and divergent validity. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.