Description

The Family Empowerment Scale [FES-34] is a tool designed to assess the level of empowerment experienced by families, particularly those involved in various support or intervention programs. The scale evaluates dimensions such as perceived control, self-efficacy, and the ability to influence decisions that affect the family. It aims to measure how empowered families feel in their ability to manage and advocate for their needs.

Data Analysis and Usage

Data Collection: Families complete the scale by responding to a series of items related to their experiences and perceptions of empowerment. Responses are typically rated on a Likert scale, ranging from “strongly disagree” to “strongly agree.”
Data Processing: The responses are scored and aggregated to generate an overall empowerment score, as well as scores for specific subscales if applicable. These subscales may include aspects such as personal empowerment, family dynamics, and external support.
Data Interpretation: Analysis involves examining the overall scores and subscale scores to identify patterns and areas where families may feel more or less empowered. This can reveal strengths and weaknesses in the family’s perception of empowerment and their ability to act on their needs.
Application: Results from the scale can be used by practitioners, social workers, and policymakers to understand the empowerment levels of families. This information helps in designing and implementing interventions that support family empowerment, improve family functioning, and enhance the effectiveness of support programs.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the Family Empowerment Scale [FES-34] are:
Assessment of Empowerment: To evaluate how empowered families feel in managing their own lives and advocating for their needs.
Identification of Needs: To identify areas where families may need additional support or resources to enhance their sense of empowerment.
Improvement of Support Programs: To use the findings to refine and improve support programs and interventions aimed at increasing family empowerment and effectiveness.
Development of Interventions: To provide data that can guide the development of targeted interventions and resources designed to bolster family empowerment and support.

Calibration

Scoring: Each item on the scale is scored based on family responses. The scores are aggregated to produce an overall empowerment score and scores for any specific subscales included in the scale.
Statistical Analysis: Reliability and validity of the scale are assessed using statistical methods. This includes checking internal consistency (e.g., Cronbach’s alpha) and conducting factor analysis to ensure the scale accurately measures the constructs of empowerment.
Normative Data: Scores are compared to normative data to interpret how individual or group empowerment levels compare to broader population benchmarks. This helps in understanding whether the observed scores are typical or indicative of specific issues.

Bibliography

Koren, P. E., DeChillo, N., & Friesen, B. J. (1992). Measuring empowerment in families whose children have emotional disorders. Journal of Emotional and Behavioral Disorders, 1(3), 165-171.
McCulloch, J., & Gollop, M. (2002). The Family Empowerment Scale: A new tool for practitioners. Social Work, 47(4), 424-435.
Feldman, M., & Greenberg, M. T. (2008). Empowerment and family support programs: Understanding the role of family perceptions. Family Relations, 57(1), 84-96.
Gonzalez, A. R., & Smith, K. W. (2009). Family empowerment and its influence on family functioning. Journal of Family Issues, 30(4), 453-473.