Development and preliminary validation of a questionnaire to assess perceptions on the implementation of UN CRPD principles concerning social inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities in municipalities

Abstract

Background: The present study aims to evaluate the preliminary content and face validity of the “Perceptions on the Implementation of the CRPD in muniCIpalities Questionnaire (PICI-Q),” a self-report questionnaire built to assess the perceptions on how effectively municipalities implement the CRPD principles concerning social inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities in municipalities. Methods: A two-step Delphi methodology was used to build the questionnaire and assess its content and face validity. A group including health professionals, academics, experts in psychometrics, persons with disabilities and local policymakers was involved in building the questionnaire according to the CRPD articles regarding social inclusion and active participation of persons with disabilities. Two pools of experts assessed the content and face validity and lay stakeholders, respectively. Results: An average content validity index of 0.95 was obtained, with no items removed. Regarding face validity, all items achieved high scores, ranging from 17 to 21, with a face validity index of 0.95. Conclusion: The PICI-Q is a promising tool for assessing perceptions of CRPD implementation in municipalities. Its robust preliminary validation suggests it could support local authorities in designing and improving policies and interventions aligned with the CRPD principles of social inclusion and participation for persons with disabilities.