The validity and reliability of the modified version of the Role Checklist (M-RCL)

Background: The Role Checklist assesses the number of roles a person performs, and the values ascribed to those roles. In this study, a modified version of the Role Checklist was created, which also measures role load. Objective: The purpose of this study is to examine the discriminant validity and test-retest reliability of the modified version. Method: 30 healthy women were divided into two groups: Mothers and women with no children. The original Role Checklist (RCL) and the modified version (M-RCL) were administered and compared. The modified questionnaire was administered again after two weeks. Results: Test-retest reliability was found for all but two roles, and ranged between 0.268-0.709; 0.248-0.629; and 0.336-0.648 for the past, present, and future respectively. Validity: The modified version and the original version showed strong correlation. Pearson correlations were high for the past (r = 0.923, p = 0.001), present (r = 0.1, p = 0.001), and future (r = 0.841, p = 0.001). In addition, significant statistical differences between mothers and non-mothers were found. Conclusion: The modified version of the RCL exhibits initial reliability and validity. Occupational therapists can use the M-RCL to learn about the individual's occupational roles and role load.