Description of the Questionnaire

The KESPI-A is a revised checklist that describes various forms of problematic behaviour observed in children aged 4 to 6 years attending preschool education. The questionnaire is completed by educators who, based on their experience and observation, are asked to assess the frequency with which each form of behaviour occurs. The checklist includes a total of 29 different behaviours and aims at systematically recording them in order to identify children who may need supportive intervention.

Data Analysis and Use

KESPI-A has been standardized on a sample of 1,200 children from across Greece. The results are differentiated according to the children’s gender and age (4, 5, and 6 years old). Scores are summed, and when the total exceeds the threshold of 58 points, this is considered an indication of possible problematic behaviour that requires further evaluation or intervention. The Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient is 0.90, while the split-half reliability based on the Spearman-Brown formula reaches 0.86. The inter-rater reliability is high, with the Cohen’s Kappa coefficient being statistically significant and greater than 0.40 for most of the 29 behaviour categories included in the checklist.

Purpose

The purpose of the KESPI-A is the objective detection and evaluation of problematic behaviours in preschool-aged children, so that those presenting difficulties can be promptly referred to support services for further intervention. The tool is primarily aimed at educators and professionals working with children in preschool settings.

Scoring

Each form of behaviour is rated on a four-point scale: 0 if it does not apply at all, 1 if it applies to a small degree, 2 to a moderate degree, and 3 to a great degree. The total score results from the sum of all item responses and ranges from 0 to 87. Scores above 58 may indicate a need for further assessment of the child.

References

Maniatogiannis, G., & Tafa, E. (2005). Checklist for detecting behavioural problems in preschool age. Psychology, 12(2), 153–178.
Manolitsis, G., & Tafa, E. (2008, July). Checklist for screening behavioural problems in Greek preschool children. Poster presentation, XIXth International Congress of Psychology, Berlin.