Introducing the coding observations of parent–child interactions (COPI): an observational measure of the parental behaviours that matter for language development

Abstract

Previous studies have highlighted domains of parent--child interactions associated with language development among preschool-aged children, namely responsiveness, support to learning, affect, and control. Although many tools have been developed, no single tool has been validated among young children to allow a comprehensive observation of the parental behaviours linked with early language development. The Maternal Behavior Rating Scale-Revised (Mahoney, 2008) presents good content validity. However, since it was not specifically designed for the observation of parental behaviours involved in child language outcomes, an adaptation was necessary. This led to the validation of a new tool named the Coding Observations of Parent--Child Interactions. This tool includes 10 parental behaviours divided into four domains of parent--child interactions: responsive behaviours (sensitivity to the child's interests, responsivity, reciprocity, inventiveness); control (directiveness, pace); support to learning (stimulation); and affect (warmth, enjoyment, acceptance). A factor analysis conducted with 95 children (Mage = 42.07 months, SD = 0.28) and one of their parents confirmed the factorial structure of the tool. Its reliability was demonstrated through high inter-rater (87%--93%, p < .001) and intra-rater (88%--98%, p < .001) agreement. The validation of this tool among a population of 42-month-old children from the general population and their families suggests that it can serve as a valid and reliable method for observing the main parental behaviours of interest for the language development of preschool aged-children. It could therefore be a useful tool for researchers and clinicians interested in early language development. development of preschool aged-children. It could therefore be a useful tool for researchers and clinicians interested in early language development.