Authoritative Parenting Index (API)
A 16-item self-report questionnaire that measures authoritative parenting behavior through the dimensions of responsiveness and demandingness.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Authoritative Parenting Index (API) was developed by Jackson C., Henriksen L., & Foshee V.A. (1998). It is designed to measure Authoritative parenting behavior. The scale is intended for use with Children and adolescents.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 16 items organized into 2 factors/subscales: Responsiveness, Demandingness.
| Factor / Subscale | Items | N |
|---|---|---|
| Responsiveness | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 | 9 |
| Demandingness | 10,11,12,13,14,15,16 | 7 |
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 1 = Not like, 2 = Sort of like, 3 = A lot like, 4 = Just like.
The scale includes 3 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Items are summed to produce a total score.
Total scores range from 16 to 64. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low Authoritative Parenting: 16 – 32
- Moderate Authoritative Parenting: 33 – 48
- High Authoritative Parenting: 49 – 64
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of Good internal consistency.
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.