Estructura Dimensional de la Escala KidsLife, versión Colombia, para la Evaluación de Calidad de Vida en Discapacidad Intelectual

Abstract

The discussion about the validity of the factor structure of the dimensions that constitute the quality of life (QOL) construct in the field of intellectual disability has highlighted the need to conduct new studies. The aim of this study was to analyze the dimensional structure of the KidsLife Scale, designed upon the basis of the 8-factor QOL model advanced by Schalock and Verdugo Alonso (2007). Using a convenience sample, the scale was administered to the caregivers of 220 people receiving support in specialized institutions. These caregivers' wards were between 4 and 21 years old, had been diagnosed with intellectual disability, and resided in 3 cities in Colombia. The study, of an instrumental nature, was conducted using structural equation modeling, confirmatory factor analysis, construct reliability analysis, average variance extracted, and multiple correlations R2. Working hypotheses based on 5 different models were analyzed. The model composed of 8 interrelated dimensions displayed factor loadings ranging from 0,63 to 0,95, multiple correlations between 0,24 and 0,81, a general reliability value of 0,979, and an average variance extracted greater than 50%, without any second-order dimensions being identified. It is concluded that the proposed KidsLife Scale model positively reports the QOL of people with intellectual disabilities in 3 Colombian cities. New studies are needed to identify the possible existence of second-order factors.