The Parenting Stress Index (PSI) quickly screens for stress in the parent-child relationship. It identifies dysfunctional parenting and predicts the potential for parental behavior problems and child adjustment difficulties within the family system. While its primary focus is on the preschool child, the PSI can be used with parents whose children are 12 years of age or younger.

Written at a fifth-grade reading level, the PSI consists of 101 items and takes 20–25 minutes for the parent to complete. It yields a Total Stress Score, plus the following scale scores, which pinpoint sources of stress within the family:

An optional, 19-item Life Stress Scale provides a context for the other PSI scores.

A Short Form of the PSI is also available. Composed of 36 items from the full-length PSI and completed in just 10 to 15 minutes, it yields a Total Stress Score.

Both the standard and short forms of the test can be scored using the PSI Software Portfolio. This powerful program automatically scores item responses and generates a report. For the Short Form, the report includes a profile and score summary. For the Standard Form, it adds interpretive information, diagnostic hypotheses, and treatment recommendations.

Normed on more than 2,500 parents, the PSI has proven useful in programs aimed at early identification and prevention of family problems. It is also helpful in planning intervention and treatment, assessing child abuse, and completing forensic evaluations for child custody.

Component

KIT: Includes 10 Reusable Item Booklets; 25 Answer Sheet/Profile Forms; 1 Manual