Investigating Theory of Mind Across Childhood: Development and Evaluation of Psychometric Properties of Social Cognition Checklist

Document Type : Scientific-research

Authors

1 Ph.D. Student in Social Cognition, Cognitive Psychology Department, Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran.

2 Professor, Clinical Psychology Department, Kharazmi University & Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran.

3 Assistant Professor, Psychiatry and Psychology Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University Medical Science, Tehran, Iran.

4 Professor, Psychiatry and Psychology Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University Medical Science, Tehran, Iran

5 Assistant Professor, Cognitive Psychology Department, Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran.

6 Ph.D. in Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was the development and investigation of the psychometric characteristics of the Social Cognition Checklist (SASHA), designed to assess mind-reading skills across childhood.
 
Method: This research employed a descriptive correlational design based on psychometric analysis. The Social Cognition Checklist, comprising 44 statements, was administered to 492 children aged 3 to 12 years through random multi-stage cluster sampling in Tehran. Confirmatory factor analysis was employed for data analysis.
 
Results: The results of confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the presence of three factors within the checklist. Correlation coefficient results supported the convergent validity of the Social Cognition Checklist with the Theory of Mind Quotient. Reliability assessment utilized Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, revealing satisfactory values for the precursor theory of mind (0.81), elementary theory of mind (0.98), advanced theory of mind (0.97), and the total score (0.98).
 
Conclusion: In conclusion, the Social Cognition Checklist demonstrates utility as a practical tool for diagnosis, screening, research, and various intervention areas.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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