Degree of satisfaction with family functioning, using the APGAR scale

Introduction: The family is the first social nucleus. There are different types of families constituted by beliefs, customs, values, and behaviors. The family APGAR is an instrument for evaluating family functionality. The role of the family during childhood is transcendental for cognitive, mental, and social progress since at this stage it allows offering protection, attention, and teaching to strengthen their progress. Aim: Analyze the degree of satisfaction in relation to the level of Family Functioning, through the application of the APGAR Test. Methodology: A study with a quantitative, non-experimental, correlational, and cross-sectional approach was carried out, where we worked with a population of adults and older adults that included 140 families, residing in urban and rural areas of the province of Cañar - Ecuador, selected through non-probability sampling. The APGAR scale was used to evaluate the perception of family functioning and the relationship between its members, the components are evaluated through three closed questions with a Likert-type rating score and the results describe a functional family, with mild dysfunction and severe dysfunction. Statistical analyzes were performed using SPSS.21. Results:140 families participated, with key informants, adults from 18 to 85 years (m42.7), an average of 4.11 family members, and 69.3% are families residing in rural areas. Regarding family functionality, 80.7% are in the highly functional range; In relation to the question. Do you feel that your family loves you?, 82.1% present with the item Almost always, as well as the highest mean score of 1.76. In the questions posed, it is evident that there is a statistically significant correlation p-value of 0.000, considering a p-value of < 0.05. Conclusion: Each family is formed by different social nuclei since it has its own identity, interrelationships, and intergenerational. The study shows a close correlation between the degree of satisfaction almost always and high functionality among families.