Introduction
The Family Assessment Measure – III (FAM-III or FAMHA) is a psychological tool designed to assess family functioning across multiple domains. Developed by Skinner, Steinhauer, and Santa-Barbara, it is widely used in clinical and research settings to evaluate the health, strengths, and problem areas in family systems. FAMHA is rooted in the transactional model of family functioning, which views the family as an interactive system where members influence one another continuously.
What is FAMHA?
FAMHA stands for Family Assessment Measure – Hindi Adaptation. It is a culturally adapted version of the FAM-III for Indian populations, enabling more accurate assessment of family dynamics in the Indian socio-cultural context.
The FAM-III is composed of three main components:
- General Scale (GS): Assesses overall family functioning
- Dyadic Relationship Scale (DRS): Measures functioning between two specific members (e.g., parent-child)
- Self-Rating Scale (SRS): Evaluates how an individual perceives their own role and functioning in the family
Domains Measured by FAMHA
The FAMHA, like the original FAM-III, assesses the following seven parameters:
- Task Accomplishment: How effectively the family completes important tasks
- Role Performance: Clarity and appropriateness of roles assigned within the family
- Communication: Quality and clarity of communication among members
- Affective Expression: Expression and sharing of emotions
- Involvement: Degree of emotional bonding and interest shown by members
- Control: Power distribution and discipline methods
- Values and Norms: Shared beliefs and adherence to cultural/family values
Uses of FAMHA
- Clinical diagnosis of dysfunctional family patterns
- Monitoring progress in family therapy
- Pre-marital and marital counseling
- Educational and school psychology settings
- Research studies on family structures and dynamics
Reliability of FAMHA
Reliability refers to the consistency of the test results over time, across different raters, and among items in the tool.
1. Internal Consistency
FAMHA has demonstrated good internal consistency with high Cronbach’s alpha values (generally above 0.80) for all three scales. This means the items within each scale measure the same underlying concept effectively.
2. Test-Retest Reliability
Studies have shown that FAMHA scores remain consistent over time, indicating stability in measurement. Test-retest correlations are typically high (r = 0.75 or above), suggesting that the instrument is dependable when administered multiple times under similar conditions.
3. Inter-Rater Reliability
Although FAMHA is mostly self-reported, when used in observational or therapist-assisted formats, it shows good inter-rater reliability.
Validity of FAMHA
Validity refers to how well an instrument measures what it claims to measure. FAMHA has strong evidence supporting various forms of validity:
1. Content Validity
FAMHA covers all essential domains of family functioning, ensuring comprehensive assessment. Experts in clinical psychology have validated the appropriateness of the content for Indian family structures.
2. Construct Validity
Studies comparing FAMHA with other family functioning measures (like McMaster Family Assessment Device) have shown high correlation, supporting its ability to measure the theoretical construct of family health and dysfunction.
3. Criterion Validity
FAMHA has demonstrated its ability to distinguish between healthy and dysfunctional families. Clinical groups score significantly different from non-clinical groups, proving its diagnostic utility.
Cultural Relevance of FAMHA
The FAMHA’s adaptation for Indian use considers language, cultural norms, and traditional family roles. This makes it more accurate and sensitive in Indian clinical practice than Western tools directly used without adaptation.
Limitations
- Like all self-report tools, it may be influenced by social desirability bias.
- Requires literacy and willingness to participate honestly.
- May not be suitable for all cultural subgroups within India.
Conclusion
The FAMHA is a reliable and valid tool for assessing family functioning in the Indian context. Its structured format, cultural sensitivity, and solid psychometric properties make it useful in clinical psychology, research, and counseling. With strong internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and multiple forms of validity, FAMHA provides an insightful understanding of family dynamics and helps guide interventions effectively.