Factor Structure, Reliability and Validity of Persian Version of Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale(BDEFS)- Adult Version

Authors

Abstract

Introduction: The Barkley deficit in executive functioning scale (BDEFS for Adults) is one of the newest scales that measure executive functions. It is based on the neuropsychological theory of Barkley. The purpose of the current study was to assess the psychometric features of the Persian form of the scale. Method: The design of this study was descriptive – correlation study. The samples were included 613 of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad in academic year 91-90 and selected randomly method. The research instrument was The Barkley deficits in executive functioning scale (BDEFS for adults). Analysis of data was performed by Using Cranach's alpha, t test for independent groups and confirmatory factor analysis. Finding: Cranach's alpha coefficients for all subscales between 0/80 to 0/92 and the total scale were obtained 0/96 which showed scale reliability is good. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed a five factor model of the Barkley deficits in executive functioning scale (BDEFS for Adults), (self-management to time, -organization/problem solving , self motivation, self-restraint, self, self-regulation of emotions) in the Iranian society has a good fit. Therefore, the validity of this scale is appropriate. In conclusion, the results of t-test showed that the mean of boys' scores on the self-management to time, the self motivation, and total scale were significantly more than girls. the mean of girls' scores on the self motivation of emotion was significantly more than boys. Conclusion: The Barkley deficits in executive functioning scale (BDEFS for Adults) can be a useful instrument studies to asses deficits executive functioning in everyday life in Iranian society.

Keywords