Acceptability of an emotional and behavioural screening tool for children in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services in urban NSW

Abstract

Objective: To assess the acceptability and face validity of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) in Aboriginal community controlled health services (ACCHOs) located in the greater Sydney region. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted in three ACCHOs located within the greater Sydney region in 2008-2009. A semi-structured approach was used in focus groups and small group interviews (n=47) to elicit participants' views on the appropriateness of the SDQ and any additional issues of importance to Aboriginal child and adolescent mental health. Results: The SDQ was found to cover many important aspects of Aboriginal child and adolescent mental health, however, the wording of some..