An item response theory investigation of the Family Assessment Form

Drawing from a sample obtained from a large scale, community-based child maltreatment prevention initiative, factor analysis and item response theory (IRT) were used to examine item discrimination and to identify items on the Family Assessment Form (FAF) that statistically do not add value for predictive modeling. Results suggest a consolidated, six-factor structure in general accordance with the current configuration of the instrument. In addition, 13 of the 59 items are identified as low information, indicating that they do not contribute unique measurement information regarding the underlying dimensions of the FAF. Findings suggest that from a statistical measurement perspective, the FAF can be shortened and retain its internal validity, although from a functional assessment perspective, certain items may need to be retained for comprehensive family assessment and case planning.