AUTHOR=Qi Wei , Xing Chumeng , Ding Luojin , Wang Jingli , Guo Dong , Xu Yiye TITLE=Reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the retrospective family unpredictability scale JOURNAL=Frontiers in Psychology VOLUME=Volume 16 - 2025 YEAR=2025 URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1539693 DOI=10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1539693 ISSN=1664-1078 ABSTRACT=ObjectiveThis study aimed to revise the Chinese version of the Retrospective Family Unpredictability Scale (Retro-FUS-C) and evaluate its psychometric properties.MethodsTwo independent samples were collected through convenience sampling. Sample 1 (N = 277) was used for item analysis, parallel analysis, and exploratory factor analysis. Sample 2 (N = 612) was used to conduct confirmatory factor analysis, assess internal consistency, and examine criterion-related validity.ResultsThe revised Retro-FUS-C retained 18 items and identified a three-factor structure: parental discipline, maternal nurturance, and paternal nurturance. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the three-factor model with good model fit, and measurement invariance across gender was supported. Internal consistency was satisfactory (Cronbach's α = 0.76-−0.90; McDonald's ω = 0.85−0.95). Significant correlations with external measures supported criterion-related validity.ConclusionThe Retro-FUS-C provides a reliable and culturally appropriate tool for assessing retrospective family unpredictability among Chinese young adults, with potential utility in identifying individuals at risk for later psychological difficulties and informing prevention and intervention efforts.