COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF MATERNAL AND PATERNAL ISLAMIC PARENTING PRACTICES: EVIDENCE FROM THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ISLAMIC PARENTING STYLE SCALE

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the development of standards for Islamic parenting practices, emphasizing the distinct yet complementary roles of fathers and mothers. Drawing on psychological research, Islamic teachings, and Muslim scholars’ perspectives, this study examines how religious considerations shape the parenting styles of both mothers and fathers. Muslim parents need evidence-based, successful intervention programs, but the creation of trustworthy and valid measuring tools, like the Islamic Parenting Style Scale (IPSS), is essential to the program's success.  The study's two main goals were to (1) establish the framework of the Islamic parenting style with a father and mother version and (2) create IPSS norms for parents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. After EFA and inter-item correlation, 64 items for the father version (N=409) and 66 items for the mother version (N= 409) were retained to be included in the final analysis of CFA. EFA suggested a three-factor structure for the IPSS, including the cognitive/reflective, guidance/supervision, and compassionate domains. CFA confirmed these three factors, with 28 items for the father version (N=250) and 25 items for the mother version (N=250). As a psychometrically robust tool, the IPSS provides future users with a highly valid and reliable way to measure three major aspects of Islamic parenting. Findings add to understanding gender-specific forms of Islamic parenting, extending earlier scale validation work through comparison analysis.” It is predicted that the IPSS will expand academics' understanding of Islamic parenting techniques among Muslim populations. This presents considerable promise for accurate evaluations and successful, focused parenting interventions in the Muslim community of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.