Description

The Family Assessment Device (FAD) is a comprehensive tool designed to evaluate various aspects of family functioning. It assesses how well families manage different aspects of their relationships, communication, problem-solving, and overall functioning. The FAD helps in understanding family dynamics and identifying areas where family functioning might need improvement.

Data Analysis and Usage

The analysis and usage of data from the FAD-60 involve:
Data Collection: Gathering responses from family members across various items related to family functioning. The FAD-60 includes questions that cover different dimensions of family life.
Scoring: Calculating scores for each dimension of family functioning based on responses. The scale typically uses a Likert system to measure the extent of agreement or disagreement with various statements.
Data Interpretation: Analyzing scores to identify strengths and weaknesses within the family system. This helps in understanding how different aspects of family functioning impact overall family well-being and highlights areas that may require intervention.
Application: The results are used by family therapists, counselors, and researchers to guide therapeutic interventions, support family development, and improve family relationships.

Objectives

The main objectives of the Family Assessment Device are:
Assessment of Family Functioning: To evaluate the effectiveness of various aspects of family
functioning, including communication, problem-solving, and emotional support.
Identification of Problem Areas: To pinpoint specific areas where family functioning may be problematic and where targeted interventions might be needed.
Support for Intervention Planning: To provide data that can be used to design and implement strategies aimed at enhancing family dynamics and improving overall family functioning.

Calibration

The calibration of the FAD-60 includes:
Scoring: Each item is scored based on a predefined Likert scale, and scores are aggregated to provide an overall measure of family functioning across different dimensions.
Statistical Analysis: Data is analyzed to ensure the reliability and validity of the scale. This includes checking for consistency in responses and comparing scores across similar populations.
Normative Data: Scores are compared to normative data to interpret the family’s performance relative to other families. This helps in understanding where the family stands in terms of functioning compared to a broader population.

Bibliography

Epstein, N. B., Baldwin, L. M., & Bishop, D. S. (1983). The McMaster Model of Family Functioning. In F. J. McCubbin, A. E. Thompson, & J. A. McCubbin (Eds.), Family Assessment: Resiliency, Coping and Adaptation: Inventories for Research and Practice.
McCubbin, H. I., & McCubbin, M. A. (1989). Family Stress Theory and Assessment: The McCubbin and Patterson Model.
Hahlweg, K., & Grawe, K. (2000). The Family Assessment Device: Reliability and Validity.
Kazdin, A. E. (2000). The Assessment of Family Functioning: A Review of Methods and Measures.
Wright, L. M., & Leahey, M. (2009). Nurses and Families: A Guide to Family Assessment and Intervention.