Psychometric validation of the positive aspects of caregiving (PAC) scale among informal caregivers of persons with mental disorders in Nigeria

Abstract

Objectives: Informal caregiving for individuals with mental disorders is often challenging, yet it can also be a source of personal growth and fulfilment. Despite increasing global attention on the positive aspects of caregiving, there is limited evidence from low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria. The study aimed to determine the psychometric properties of the 9-item Positive Aspects of Caregiving (PAC) scale among informal caregivers of persons with mental disorders in Nigeria.

Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 215 informal caregivers. Participants completed the PAC scale, Positive Aspects of Caregiving Questionnaire (PACQ), and Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI-12). Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach’s alpha. Convergent and divergent validity were assessed through Spearman’s correlation of the PAC scale with PACQ and ZBI-12, respectively. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted using SPSS AMOS version 26.

Results: The PAC scale showed good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.829). The Self-Affirmation and Outlook on Life subscales had Cronbach’s α of 0.720 and 0.918, respectively. PAC scale correlated positively with PACQ (ρ = 0.773, p < 0.001) and negatively with ZBI-12 (ρ = -0.790, p < 0.001), indicating good convergent and divergent validity, respectively. CFA supported a two-factor structure with excellent model fit indices (CFI = 0.989, RMSEA = 0.054).

Conclusion: The PAC scale is thus a reliable and valid tool for assessing positive caregiving experiences among Nigerian caregivers. Its use could inform culturally relevant interventions that enhance caregiver resilience and support in similar low-resource settings.