Validation and Reliability of Questionnaire Evaluating the Role of Feeding Practices and Maternal Influences on Early Childhood Caries amongst 2 to 6 Year Old Children in Kolkata, West Bengal

Dr. Pritha Pramanick, Dr. Riya Kundu, Dr. Abhisikta Ghosh, Dr. Biswaroop Chandra, Dr. Shabnam Zahir

Abstract: Aim: The aim of the study was to check the validity and reliability of questionnaire evaluating the role of feeding practices and maternal influences on Early Childhood Caries. Materials and Methods: A pilot study was done with participants, including boys and girls, who visited the outpatient department. Children between the ages 2 to 6 years were included in the study. Parents filled up the questionnaire which consisted of 22 items. The English version of the questionnaire was formulated through various literature reviews and was sent to a bilingual teacher for translation into Bengali(V1) and Hindi(V2). After that, questionnaire was sent to bilingual teacher for any semantic correction and made idiosyncratic variants. The scale was then back translated into the original language. Data were tabulated and analyzed and the statistical methods used were Cronbachs alpha , Inter-observer reliability and Content validity ratio. Results: Content Validity Ratio ranged is within the acceptable limit. For Intra-class correlation coefficient questions showed showed good reliability. Cronbach's alpha indicates the questionnaire has overall good validity and reliability. Conclusion: The questionnaire is a simple and valid scale which can be used to evaluate the role of feeding practices and maternal influences on Early Childhood Caries.

Keywords: Early Childhood Caries, Feeding habits, Maternal influence

How to Cite?: Dr. Pritha Pramanick, Dr. Riya Kundu, Dr. Abhisikta Ghosh, Dr. Biswaroop Chandra, Dr. Shabnam Zahir, "Validation and Reliability of Questionnaire Evaluating the Role of Feeding Practices and Maternal Influences on Early Childhood Caries amongst 2 to 6 Year Old Children in Kolkata, West Bengal", Volume 12 Issue 9, September 2023, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1324-1331, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR23916211927, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR23916211927