Construct validation of the Enabling Practices Scale

Background Empowerment is regarded as an important outcome in service provision to families of individuals with disability. Nevertheless, data on psychometric characteristics of measures related to empowerment are often inadequate, and limited data are available on the Enabling Practices Scale (EPS). Method The EPS was completed by 128 families enrolled in a support program for children with disability in childcare centres. Results Confirmatory factor analysis failed to affirm the original factor structure of the EPS. Subsequent exploratory factor analysis suggested an alternative 3-factor structure (Comfort and Reciprocity, Autonomy, and Support). Internal consistency of these factors was acceptable to high. Conclusions The EPS is a potentially useful instrument to evaluate service practices that may be related to family empowerment, but further examination of its psychometric characteristics is suggested.