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The strengths and difficulties questionnaire: validation study in French school-aged children and cross-cultural comparisons

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Abstract

Objectives

To examine the psychometric properties of the French version of the strengths and difficulties questionnaire (SDQ), compare estimates of child mental health problems and SDQ scores across France, US and UK.

Methods

The French version of the parent-reported SDQ was administered to the parents of a representative sample of 1,348 French children aged 6–11 years old. The response rate was 57.6%. We performed three scoring methods and examined their association with socio-demographic data. French SDQ scores were compared with SDQ scores from US and UK national surveys.

Results

The French cut-off points for the scoring bands were similar to those of the UK and US, with a few exceptions (peer relationship problems, prosocial behaviour). The internal consistency of the SDQ subscales was acceptable with Cronbach α coefficients ranging from 0.46 for peer relationship problems to 0.74 for hyperactivity/inattention. Known socio-demographic risk factors were associated with SDQ scoring method. For most SDQ scores, differences between France and the UK were smaller (5%) than those between France and the US.

Conclusion

The study provided good support for the validity of the parent-reported SDQ in France as well as evidence for the usefulness of the SDQ as a promising screening instrument for epidemiological research and clinical purposes.

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Acknowledgments

We are indebted to Christine Chan-Chee, Robert Goodman, Jean-Pierre Valla, the French Ministry of Health and Social Affairs, Ministry of Education, PACA Regional Directorate for Health and Social Affairs, Aix-Marseille and Nice Educational Authority, children, parents, teachers and principals of participating schools. The study was funded by MGEN Foundation for Public Health, MAE, MAIF Foundation, FNMF and PACA Regional Directorate for Health and Social Affairs (DRASS Provence-Alpes Côte-d’Azur region).

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Correspondence to Viviane Kovess MD, PhD.

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Shojaei, T., Wazana, A., Pitrou, I. et al. The strengths and difficulties questionnaire: validation study in French school-aged children and cross-cultural comparisons. Soc Psychiat Epidemiol 44, 740–747 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-008-0489-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-008-0489-8

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