Abstract
<p>Objective Researchers have differentiated forms (overt, relational) and functions (proactive, reactive) of aggressive behavior; however, the assessment options for measuring these constructs in youth remain limited. This study examined the parent-report Peer Conflict Scale (PCS) for measuring forms and functions of youth aggressive behavior in English and Spanish, including short- and long-form versions. Method Participants were caregivers of 653 youths (ages 6-17; 57% male; 48% Hispanic) throughout North America. The PCS and other measures of emotional, behavioral, and social functioning were collected by parent-report in English (51%) and Spanish (49%). Analyses examined the descriptive characteristics, internal consistency, validity correlations, factor structure, and measurement invariance of the PCS. Results All PCS scales showed good or excellent internal consistency (alpha s/omega s = .82-.97). Convergent and discriminant validity hypotheses were generally supported, but with limited specificity to aggression dimensions. The independent forms-by-functions model (4 factors) fit best, although support was also found for general aggression, forms or functions, and paired form-by-function models (1-4 factors; root mean square error of approximation <0.07, comparative fit index and Tucker-Lewis index >0.96). The PCS demonstrated invariance and acceptable fit across language, gender, and age groups. Conclusion Findings support the reliability, validity, and utility of the PCS for assessing youth aggressive behavior as rated by English- and Spanish-speaking caregivers, whether via full-length (40-item) or brief (20-item) versions. Given that parent-rated PCS dimensions are highly correlated yet distinct, clinicians and researchers could use it to measure and model the aspects of aggressive behavior most relevant to their goals: general aggression, forms, functions, or forms and functions.</p>