The Motivation to Have a Child Scale (MCS): Adaptation and Validation in the Italian Context

Martina Gallo, Francesca Liga, Federica Papa, Antonino Santamaria, Nicla Cucinella, Sonia Ingoglia, Centre for Research and Psychological Intervention , University of Messina, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Department of Psychology, University of Campania , Luigi Vanvitelli, Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo

Emerging Adulthood

Published online on July 14, 2026

Abstract

Emerging Adulthood, Ahead of Print.
Motivations underlying major life decisions, such as having children, vary in intensity and quality. Grounded in Self-Determination Theory (SDT), the Motivation to Have a Child Scale (MCS) assesses five related forms of motivation: intrinsic, identified, ...