Psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the Ages & Stages Questionnaires: Social–Emotional in a nationally representative sample

The Ages & Stages Questionnaires: Social–Emotional (ASQ-SE) is a developmental screening test used around the world. However, research assessing the psychometric properties of the Spanish version or in nationally representative samples is scarce. The aim of this study is to evaluate the psychometric properties of ASQ-SE in Spanish, and to characterize the socio-emotional scores by sex and socioeconomic status. We administered the ASQ-SE, the Child Behavior Checklist 1 ½ - 5 and the Ages and Stages Questionnaires (3rd version) to a nationally representative sample of children in Uruguay aged 0–3 years old. A floor effect was observed in most of the age ranges for ASQ-SE, specifically in the questionnaires for younger infants. Internal consistency was acceptable. The sensitivity and specificity of the instrument was good when using cut-off scores based on the sample of this study rather than on the original United States sample. Boys and children of lower socioeconomic status had more socio-emotional problems. ASQ-SE in Spanish presents a uni-factorial structure with adequate internal consistency, sensitivity, specificity, and criterion validity. ASQ-SE has adequate psychometric properties to detect children whose social and emotional development requires further evaluation or continuous monitoring. •The ASQ-SE is a cost-effective screening instrument used around the world.•We analyze its psychometric properties in Spanish and in a nationally representative sample.•ASQ-SE in Spanish shows good reliability and a unifactorial solution.•ASQ-SE in Spanish has good sensitivity, specificity, and criteria validity.