Construct validity of the Child Behavior Checklist: Effects of item overlap on second-order factor structure.

Abstract

The broadband factor structure of the Child behavior Checklist (CBCL) was examined for the narrowband scales as measured in pratice (i.e., with items scored on more than 1 narrowband scale). On the basis of parallel and minimum average partial criteria, a 1-factor solution was indicated for boys age 4-5 years, girls age 4-5 years, and girls age 12-16 years; a 2-factor solution, for boys age 6-11 years, girls age 6-11 years, and boys age 12-16 years. The implications of item overlap for research and professional practices associated with the CBCL and related materials are discussed