The psychometric qualities of a short version of the multidimensional overprotective parenting scale

Abstract

The Multidimensional Overprotective Parenting Scale (MOPS) is a 35-item questionnaire assessing two dimensions of parental overprotection. Given its substantial length, the present research presents the development and psychometric properties of a short version of the MOPS (S-MOPS). Four independent samples were used (Sample 1, N = 315 Swiss adolescents; Sample 2, N = 377 Belgian adolescents and young adults; Sample 3, N = 312 Georgian young adults; Sample 4, N = 467 Swiss parents). Item selection based on factor analysis resulted in a 16-item version, comprising 10 items for anxious overprotection and 6 for ego-enhancing overprotection. The psychometric properties of the S-MOPS were similar to those of the MOPS across samples with high reliability, a stable two-factor structure, and very similar associations with theoretically relevant parenting and adjustment variables. Overall, the S-MOPS appears to be a promising instrument for use in cross-national research and research with a multi-informant approach.