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Understanding the influence of habit on health behaviour, or the formation or disruption of health habits over time, requires reliable and valid measures of automaticity. The most used measure, the Self‐Report Behavioural Automaticity Index (SRBAI; derived from the Self‐Report Habit Index [SRHI]), comprises four items, which may be impractical in some research contexts. Responding to demand from fellow researchers, this study sought to identify whether and which single items from the SRBAI adequately detect hypothesised effects of automaticity, via secondary analysis of 16 datasets, incorporating 16,838 participants and seven different behaviours. We assessed construct validity through correlations between each item and the full SRBAI (and where possible, the SRHI) and predictive validity by examining correlations with behaviour. All four single‐item measures independently met construct and predictive validity criteria. We recognise compelling conceptual and methodological arguments regarding why people should not attempt to assess automaticity via a single, self‐report item. However, where circumstances require brief measures, three SRBAI items each offer a credible and practical one‐item measure that can substitute for the SRBAI or SRHI. We recommend one item in particular—‘Behaviour X is something I do automatically’—because it tended to most closely replicate the effects of the four‐item SRBAI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the Generalized Pliance Questionnaire (GPQ) and the Generalized Tracking Questionnaire (GTQ) were created to enhance empirical analyses of rule-governed behavior, more cross-cultural research with these instruments is warranted to examine their validity. Therefore, the current study aimed to replicate previous research with a group of undergraduate students in the United States (N = 325). Overall outcomes from the current study replicated those previously reported indicating that pliance and tracking may be similar across different cultural contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic review provides an updated summary of the existing literature on the validity of screening tools for cognitive and behavioral impairment in people with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (pwALS), and also focuses on their reliability. The following cognitive and behavioral screening tools were assessed in this review: the Edinburgh Cognitive and Behavioral ALS Screen (ECAS); the ALS Cognitive Behavioral Screen (ALS-CBS), the Mini Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination (Mini-ACE), the Beaumont Behavioral Interview (BBI); the MND Behavior Scale (MiND-B); and the ALS-FTD Questionnaire (ALS-FTD-Q). A search, using Medline, PsychINFO and Embase (21/09/2023), generated 37 results after exclusion criteria were applied. Evidence of internal consistency, item-total correlations, inter-rater reliability, clinical validity, convergent validity, and structural validity were extracted and assessed and risk of bias was evaluated. The cognitive component of the ECAS was the tool with most evidence of reliability and validity for the assessment of cognitive impairment in ALS. It is well-suited to accommodate physical symptoms of ALS. For behavioral assessment, the BBI or ALS-FTD-Q had the most evidence of reliability and validity. The BBI is more thorough, but the ALS-FTD-Q is briefer. There is good but limited evidence for the reliability and validity of cognitive and behavioral screens. Further evidence of clinical and convergent validity would increase confidence in their clinical and research use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite improvements over the past decade, children continue to experience significant pain and distress surrounding invasive procedures in the emergency department (ED). To assess the impact of newly developed interventions, we must create more reliable and valid behavioral assessment tools that have been validated for the unique settings of pediatric EDs. This study aimed to create and test the Emergency Department Child Behavior Coding System (ED-CBCS) for the assessment of child distress and nondistress behaviors surrounding pediatric ED procedures. Via an iterative process, a multidisciplinary expert panel developed the ED-CBCS, an advanced time-based behavioral coding measure. Inter-rater reliability and concurrent validity were examined using 38 videos of children aged from 2 to 12 years undergoing laceration procedures. Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability (FLACC) scale scores were used to examine concurrent validity. The final ED-CBCS included 27 child distress and nondistress behaviors. Time-unit κ values from 0.64 to 0.98 and event alignment κ values from 0.62 to 1.00 indicated good to excellent inter-rater reliability for all but one of the individual codes. ED-CBCS distress (B = 1.26; p < 0.001) and nondistress behaviors (B = –0.69, p = 0.025) were independently significantly associated with FLACC scores, indicating concurrent validity. We developed a psychometrically sound tool tailored for pediatric ED procedures. Future work could use this measure to better identify behavioral targets and test the effects of interventions to relieve pediatric ED pain and distress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been more than two decades since the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA; 1997) included language about the use of functional behavior assessments (FBAs) and behavior intervention plans (BIPs) to address the challenging behaviors of students with disabilities in schools. It has been more than ten years since three technical adequacy studies were published that evaluated school-based FBAs' and BIPs' inclusion of essential components and found them to be significantly lacking. The aims of this study were to expand upon the previous research by (a) establishing the psychometric properties of the FBA/BIP Technical Adequacy Evaluation Tool (TATE), (b) evaluating the technical adequacy of 135 completed FBAs and 129 BIPs from 13 school districts across a single state, and (c) comparing the findings to previous studies. The results showed that (a) the TATE has moderate but acceptable internal consistency, excellent inter-rater reliability, and good content validity, (b) the technical adequacy scores of the evaluated products ranged between 40% and 50% of the total components, and (c) most of the BIPs had similar flaws to those seen in the previous research; however, improvement was noted in the FBA components. The implications for practice and suggestions for future research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An observational methodology system has been designed which allows the observation and analysis of the technical-tactical behaviour and interaction of judokas during competition. The observation instrument (JUTACTIC) is composed of 8 fixed criteria that provide information related to the competition and the competitors and 13 variable criteria that, throughout the intrasessional monitoring of each combat, allow the behaviour displayed by both judokas and their interaction to be recorded. From an observational sample consisting of matches from the Rio 2016 Olympic champions and the corresponding samples made using the LINCE PLUS software, evidence of validity, reliability, generalizability and applicability of the observation system is provided. The content validity of the observation instrument has been endorsed by a panel of experts (n = 11). Intra and inter-observer reliability has been guaranteed from the results obtained in the Fleiss Kappa and the Krippendorff Alpha. The generalizability analysis with the design structure [Category] [Participants] / [Matches] has confirmed that around seven matches are needed to accurately analyse the behaviour of the competitor under study. The practical application possibilities of the observation instrument has been shown with an example of the results obtained and the regular behaviour structures detected (T-patterns) using the THEME software. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study validated the Japanese version of the Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder‐Rating Scale‐5 (ADHD‐RS‐5) and the Disruptive Behavior Disorders Rating Scale. We extended the ADHD‐RS‐5 by adding the oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder subscales to compare the two rating scales psychometrically. Methods: We examined the internal consistency, test‐retest reliability, construct validity and criterion validity of the two rating scales in 135 Japanese outpatients aged 6–18 years. Results: The internal consistency and test‐retest reliability were good for all the subscales of the two rating scales except for the conduct disorder subscale of the ADHD‐RS‐5 extended. Good construct validity was revealed by expected correlational patterns between subscales from the two rating scales and the Children Behavior Checklist. The criterion validity was good for all the subscales of the two rating scales rated by parents, while teacher‐ratings revealed substantially lower predictive ability for all the subscales. Agreement between parent‐ and teacher‐ratings of the two rating scales was generally moderate and using predictive ratings alone of both ratings showed the best predictive ability among the integration methods examined. Conclusion: The two rating scales have sound psychometric properties and will aid in screening and severity assessment of externalizing disorders in Japanese clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systematic direct observations (SDOs) and behavior rating scales are integral to multimethod behavioral assessment approaches. The present study investigated the convergent validity of the Behavior Observation of Students in Schools (BOSS) form, a widely utilized SDO system, with the most frequently used teacher rating scales in schools, the Behavioral Assessment System for Children, Third Edition (BASC‐3) and the Behavioral and Emotional Screening System, third edition (BESS‐3). Specifically, the present study compared independent observer data collection of student on‐task and disruptive behaviors on the BOSS with teachers' ratings of behavioral problems on the BASC‐3 and BESS‐3. Data come from a sample of 136 teachers and 349 students with or at risk of disruptive behavior disorders (DBDs). Pearson correlations were computed between BOSS and teacher ratings on the BASC‐3 and BESS‐3. Findings demonstrated significant, small to moderate correlations. Results indicate evidence of convergent validity for the BOSS and BASC3 assessments and highlight multimethod behavioral assessment's utility in supporting students with or at risk of DBDs. Practitioner Points: Increased student engagement in learning was associated with less behavioral risk and symptoms as rated by classroom teachers.Disruptive and off‐task behaviors observed in students' were associated with increased behavioral risk and symptoms as rated by classroom teachers.Externalizing and overt student disruptive behaviors demonstrated stronger relationships with teacher‐rated behavioral risk and symptoms compared to students' internalizing and less disruptive behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Survey protocols measuring financial knowledge typically offer a don't know (DK) response option along with factual statements about personal finance. The potential problem of this practice is that a DK response could capture something other than financial knowledge and mislead empirical research on the association between financial knowledge and behavioral outcomes. In this study, we examined whether the current scales are contaminated by systemic personality effects and how reduced validity influences analytical modeling of the knowledge effect. Two studies with different national datasets were conducted in this investigation. Study 1 found that personality types and emotions are partially correlated with the propensity to give a DK response. Study 2 showed that controlling for DK response options alters the association between financial knowledge and behaviors in regression analyses. Our findings suggest that a DK response reduces construct validity of the financial knowledge score. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Problem behaviours in cats, such as scratching, urine marking, inter-cat cohabitation issues, and fear, are a welfare problem for both cat and caregiver. The aim of this study was to develop a new Cat Behaviour Issues Assessment Scale (CABIAS) to assess and monitor these behaviours in cats. The validity and reliability testing of the CABIAS undertaken in this study demonstrated that it could be a valuable tool for the assessment of these problem behaviours in cats. The level of agreement between different caregivers assessing the same cat was excellent. This CABIAS might be a useful tool for caregivers to assess and monitor these problem behaviours in cats. The CABIAS could also be used as a clinical tool by veterinarians and behaviourists when assessing problem behaviours in cats and monitoring responses to treatment. Problem behaviours in cats, such as urine marking, scratching, fear, and problems of cohabitation between cats, can present a potential welfare problem for those affected cats and have a negative impact on the human–animal bond. The aim of this study was to develop a Cat Behaviour Issues Assessment Scale (CABIAS) for caregivers to assess these common problem behaviours in cats, and to investigate aspects of the validity and reliability of the CABIAS. The CABIAS uses an index score as a scoring system combining aspects of the frequency and intensity of the problem behaviour. An electronic survey was developed, and 384 households, each with two participants able to observe the cat's behaviour, were recruited for the study. The participants were asked to record their cat's behaviour independently at weekly intervals over a 6-week period. A FELIWAY Optimum diffuser (containing a commercial feline pheromone complex) was provided to half of the participants, to be used during part of the study. The participants were subdivided into four groups according to whether a problem behaviour was present (or not) and whether the pheromone diffuser was provided (or not). The results demonstrated that the index scores for each problem behaviour had very high inter-rater reliability. There was a high correlation between the index scores and the impact the problem behaviours had on the caregivers. In those cats with a declared problem behaviour where the product was used, a reduction in index scores was observed over the duration of the study. The CABIAS was shown to exhibit satisfactory validity, reliability, and sensitivity to change in the current study, suggesting that it may be valuable as a tool for assessing and monitoring scratching, inter-cat cohabitation, urine marking, and fear in cats. The CABIAS could be used by veterinarians and behaviourists to assess these problem behaviours in individual cats and monitor responses to treatment. The CABIAS could also be considered as a research tool to assess the efficacy of interventions aimed at improving these problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the behaviors displayed by assessees are the currency of assessment centers (ACs), they have remained largely unexplored. This is surprising because a better understanding of assessees' behaviors may provide the missing link between research on the determinants of assessee performance and research on the validity of performance ratings. Therefore, this study draws on behavioral personality science to scrutinize the behaviors that assessees express in interpersonal AC exercises. Our goals were to investigate (a) the structure of interpersonal behaviors, (b) the consistency of these behaviors across AC exercises, and (c) their effectiveness. We obtained videotaped performances of 203 assessees who took part in AC role‐plays in a high‐stakes context. Apart from assessors' performance ratings, trained experts also independently coded assessees on over 40 specific behavioral cues in these role‐plays (e.g., clear statements, upright posture, freezing). Results were threefold: First, the structure underlying behavioral differences in interpersonal AC exercises was represented by four broad behavioral constructs: agency, communion, interpersonal calmness, and intellectual competence. Second, assessees' behaviors showed more consistency across exercises than performance ratings did. Third, the behaviors were related to role‐play performance and predicted future interpersonal performance. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of this study's granular, behavior‐driven perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

EPELI (Executive Performance in Everyday LIving) is a recently developed gaming tool for objective assessment of goal-directed behavior and prospective memory (PM) in everyday contexts. This pre-registered study examined psychometric features of a new EPELI adult online version, modified from the original child version and further developed for self-administered web-based testing at home. A sample of 255 healthy adults completed EPELI where their task was to perform household chores instructed by a virtual character. The participants also filled out PM-related questionnaires and a diary and performed two conventional PM tasks and an intelligence test. We expected that the more "life-like" EPELI task would show stronger associations with conventional PM questionnaires and diary-based everyday PM reports than traditional PM tasks would do. This hypothesis did not receive support. Although EPELI was rated as more similar to everyday tasks, performance in it was not associated with the questionnaires and the diary. However, there were associations between time-monitoring behavior in EPELI and the traditional PM tasks. Taken together, online adult-EPELI was found to be a reliable method with high ecological face validity, but its convergent validity requires further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This manuscript aims to present a novel behavioral impulsivity test ImGo, which is suitable for impulsivity assessment in the general population. A series of three studies was conducted to validate its psychometric qualities. In Study 1 we describe the principles of ImGo and verify its test-retest and split-half reliability and its convergent validity with an impulsivity self-report scale and Stop Signal test. In Study 2 we re-analyze the convergent validity of ImGo with a Stop Signal test and examine the potential relationship between ImGo and oculomotor inhibition measured by an Anti-Saccades test. In Study 3 we present a robust research with a large sample size and investigate the discriminant validity of ImGo with tests of other related cognitive and executive processes. Backed by our findings from these studies we can safely claim ImGo is a powerful tool with a good level of reliability (both test-retest and split-half) and validity (convergent and discriminant). Its potential lies in its use in diagnostic and research practice of experts from various countries as the test has already been translated to 9 languages so far. The open-source Hypothesis platform, on which the ImGo test is running, provides the option of both individual and group testing in laboratory conditions as well as remotely through an internet browser. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We examined the frequency of possible invalid test scores on the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and whether there was an association between scores on the embedded RBANS performance validity tests (PVTs) and self-reported symptoms of apathy as measured by the Initiate Scale of the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Adult Version (BRIEF-A). Methods: Participants included 250 patients (M = 24.4 years-old, SD = 5.7) with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Base rates of RBANS Effort Index (EI), Effort Scale (ES), and Performance Validity Index (PVI) test scores were computed. Spearman correlations were used to examine the associations between the RBANS PVTs, the RBANS Index scores, and the BRIEF-A Initiate Scale. Regression analyses were used to investigate how well the RBANS PVTs predicted scores on the BRIEF-A Initiate Scale. Results: The frequency of invalid scores on the EI (>3) and the PVI (<42) in participants with schizophrenia spectrum disorders was 6%. The frequency of invalid ES scores (<12) was 28% in the patients compared to 15% in the U.S. standardization sample. There was a small significant correlation between the EI and the BRIEF-A Initiate Scale (rho=.158, p<.05). Conclusions: The rates of invalid scores were similar to previously published studies. Invalid scores on the BRIEF-A were uncommon. Apathy measured with the BRIEF-A Initiate Scale was not associated with performance on the RBANS validity measures or with measures of cognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The study evaluated the convergent validity of the PEAK-E-PA and two common assessments of language development used in educational and clinical settings: the ABLLS-R and the TOLD-I:4. The PEAK-E-PA provides a measure of a participant's ability to derive arbitrary stimulus relations, and may therefore provide a more complex analysis of language functioning than traditional behavior analytic language assessments. The results of the present study support a strong, significant relationship between the PEAK-E-PA and the ABLLS-R (r = 0.73, p < 0.01), but the obtained coefficient falls within the lower range of prior psychometric evaluations of behavioral language assessments. The results suggest a stronger relationship between the PEAK-E-PA the TOLD-I:4 (r = 0.94, p < 0.01), supporting the use of the PEAK-E-PA with individuals with autism who have progressed beyond the elementary verbal operant skills assessed for in traditional behavioral assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the validity of the Behavior Assessment System for Children 2nd Edition, by providing evidence based on a multitrait-multimethod (MTMM) analysis performed on data obtained with a culturally adapted form of the test. The study included two Romanian samples (161 adolescents aged 12-18 years and 91 children aged 8-12 years) that were each assessed with all the three age corresponding forms (self, parent, and teacher) of the test. We used a confirmatory factor analytic framework in order to test the convergent and discriminant validity of BASC-2, by generating a CFA-based multi-trait, multi-method latent factor correlation matrix. Results showed that, for both the Adolescent and Child forms, the coefficients falling under the validity diagonal (mono-trait, hetero-method) have the highest median values, compared to the coefficients encountered in the monomethod block and those in the heteromethod-heterotrait triangles. The study provides evidence for the construct validity of the multi-trait, multi-rater assessment system that is the basis of the BASC-2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop and validate questionnaires to assess the behavioral, psychosocial, and environmental predictors of successful weight loss outcomes. Mixed method study. Questionnaires were developed using 5 steps: item generation by literature review and preexisting questionnaires, expert evaluation, pilot testing, factor analysis, and internal consistency. Adults with obesity recruited via web-based survey hyperlink. One hundred participants with a mean body mass index of 28.7 ± 4.4 kg/m2. The questionnaires were generated using 221 items. Establishing content, face and construct validity, and internal consistency. Content validity was analyzed using content validity index and content validity ratio, internal consistency through Cronbach α (CA), and structural validity by factor analysis via principal varimax rotation. All three questionnaires had good content validity. The Behavioral Predictor Questionnaire had good internal consistency (CA, 0.7) and excellent structural validity (69.7%). Psychosocial Predictors Questionnaire (CA, 0.8, 67.5%) and Environmental Predictors Questionnaire (CA: 0.8, 72.2%) had excellent internal consistency and structural validity. Questionnaires seem to be practical, valid, and reliable tools for baseline assessment of individual-specific factors related to weight loss success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study investigated the discriminative validity of various single or combined measurements of electroencephalogram (EEG) data, Conners' Kiddie Continuous Performance Test (K-CPT), and Disruptive Behavior Disorder Rating Scale (DBDRS) to differentiate preschool children with ADHD from those with typical development (TD). Method: We recruited 70 preschoolers, of whom 38 were diagnosed with ADHD and 32 exhibited TD; all participants underwent the K-CPT and wireless EEG recording in different conditions (rest, slow-rate, and fast-rate task). Results: Slow-rate task-related central parietal delta (1–4 Hz) and central alpha (8–13 Hz) and beta (13–30 Hz) powers between groups with ADHD and TD were significantly distinct (p <.05). A combination of DBDRS, K-CPT, and specific EEG data provided the best probability scores (area under curve = 0.926, p <.001) and discriminative validity to identify preschool children with ADHD (overall correct classification rate = 85.71%). Conclusions: Multi-method and multi-informant evaluations should be emphasized in clinical diagnosis of preschool ADHD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reserpine (RES), a Vesicular Monoamine Transporter 2 (VMAT 2) inhibitor agent, has been used in preclinical research for many years to create animal models for depression and to test experimental antidepressant strategies. Nevertheless, evidence of the potential use and validity of RES as a chronic pharmacological model for depression is lacking, and there are no comprehensive studies of the behavioral effects in conjunction with molecular outcomes. Experiment 1. Following baseline behavior testing sensitive to depression-like phenotype and locomotion (Phase 1), 27 Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats received i.p. either vehicle solution (0.0 mg/kg), low (0.2 mg/kg) or high (0.8 mg/kg) RES dose for 20 days using a pre-determined schedule and reassessed for behavioral phenotypes (Phase 2). After 10 days washout period, and a final behavioral assessment (Phase 3), the brains were collected 16 days after the last injection for mRNA-expression assessment. Experiment 2. In a similar timetable as in Experiment 1 but without the behavioral testing, 12 SD rats underwent repetitive dopamine D 2/3 receptor PET scanning with [18F]DMFP following each Phase. The binding potential (BP ND) of [18F]DMFP was quantified by kinetic analysis as a marker of striatal D 2/3 R availability. Weight and welfare were monitored throughout the study. Significant, dose-dependent weight loss and behavioral deficits including both motor (hypo-locomotion) and non-motor behavior (anhedonia, mild anxiety and reduced exploration) were found for both the low and high dose groups with significant decrease in D 2 R mRNA expression in the accumbal region for the low RES group after Phase 3. Both RES treated groups showed substantial increase in [18F]DMFP BP ND (in line with dopamine depletion) during Phase 2 and 3 compared to baseline and Controls. The longitudinal design of the study demonstrated that chronic RES administration induced striatal dopamine depletion that persisted even after the wash-out period. However, the behavior phenotype observed were transient. The data suggest that RES administration can induce a rodent model for depression with mild face validity. • Reduced body-weight and mild/ transient phenotype induced by chronic Reserpine. • Decreased accumbal D 2 R mRNA and synaptic dopamine post wash-out period. • Reserpine administration showed mild face validity as model of depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As many as 1 in 5 youth in the United States experience social, emotional, and behavioral problems. However, many students with mental health concerns are unidentified and do not receive adequate care. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the factor structure, measurement invariance, and the concurrent and predictive validity of the Early Identification System-Student Report (EIS-SR), a screener for social, emotional, and behavioral problems, using a sample of over 5000 students from Grades 3 to 5. The EIS-SR was developed by using extant literature on the risk indicators that lead to social, emotional, and behavioral challenges among children and youth. As expected, seven subscales were identified as having adequate factor loadings. Furthermore, the measure was determined to be invariant across grade level (n = 5005), gender (n = 5005), and between Black and White students (n = 1582). The concurrent validity of the Internalizing Behavior, Attention and Academic Issues, Emotion Dysregulation, and School Disengagement subscales was supported by correlations with comparable subscales of the Behavior Assessment System for Children-3rd Edition (BASC-3; n = 382). Additionally, the EIS-SR subscales administered in the fall of the school year were predictive of important outcomes in spring, including attendance (n = 4780), disciplinary referrals (n = 4938), bully victimization (n = 4670), math academic achievement scores (n = 4736), and reading (n = 4772) academic achievement scores. The EIS-SR holds promise as a feasible and technically adequate screening tool for use in elementary schools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A contemporary, well‐validated instrument for the measurement of behavior change in children after general anesthesia is lacking. The Post Hospitalization Behavior Questionnaire for Ambulatory Surgery (PHBQ‐AS) has been developed as an updated version of the original Post Hospitalization Behavior Questionnaire (PHBQ) to better reflect the current patient population and modern anesthetic practices. Aims: To assess the reliability of the PHBQ‐AS and determine concurrent validity with another measure of child behavior, the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Methods: We compared the PHBQ‐AS with the SDQ in 248 children presenting for day‐case surgery. A baseline SDQ measurement was taken prior to surgery, and then, both scales were administered on days 3, 14, and 28 postsurgery. Results: The PHBQ‐AS demonstrated good reliability in terms of internal consistency with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.79 and split‐half correlation with Spearman Brown adjustment of 0.85. There was weak correlation with the SDQ on day 3 postoperatively (Pearson's r = 0.201), moderate correlation on day 14 (Pearson's r = 0.421), and weak‐to‐moderate correlation on day 28 (Pearson's r = 0.340). A cut‐off score of 3.2 on the PHBQ‐AS for the diagnosis of negative behavior demonstrated equivalence with the SDQ results; however, the SDQ results remained relatively constant throughout the study period and reflected the expected rate of increased risk of problem behavior in children. Conclusions: The PHBQ‐AS showed good reliability but only had weak‐to‐moderate correlation with another measure of child behavior, the SDQ. Further validation is required before the PHBQ‐AS is used for the routine measurement of behavior change in children after anesthesia, or alternatively, a new instrument needs to be developed in order for research to advance in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: To maintain patients' dignity and well-being and alleviate suffering, it is essential that healthcare providers engage in caring behaviours. Yet, every year patient boards receive an increasing number of complaints from patients and significant others regarding healthcare providers' non-caring behaviours. Defining and measuring both verbal and nonverbal caring and non-caring behaviour in healthcare delivery is vital to address such complaints. However, no studies were found that incorporated a comprehensive theory of caring to code encounters between healthcare providers and patients. Aim: The aim was to develop and test a Caring Behavior Coding Scheme based on Swanson's Theory of Caring. Method: An instrument development process was used for behavioural coding including observational data from thirty-eight video recordings collected in an undergraduate nursing course at a Swedish University. The observational data involved interactions between undergraduate nursing students and a standardised patient. Result: The Caring Behavior Coding Scheme (the CBCS), contains seventeen verbal and eight nonverbal behavioural codes, categorised as caring and non-caring in accordance with Swanson's Theory of Caring. Content and face validity were assessed. Timed-event sequential continuous coding was performed in INTERACT software. The coder achieved excellent agreement with the developed gold standard (k = 0.87) and excellent mean inter-rater reliability (k = 0.82). All domains in Swanson's Theory of Caring were observed and coded in the interaction. Discussion/Conclusion: The CBCS is a theory-based instrument that contributes to research on healthcare providers' behavioural encounters. It uses verbal and nonverbal caring and non-caring behavioural codes to assess the alignment of both the theory and practice of caring. The CBCS can contribute to both development and measurement of interventions focused on improving healthcare providers' caring behaviour with the intended outcome of patient well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We analyzed some factors affecting performance reliability of the human behavior in green architecture construction engineering. • We looked the humans and their environment as a whole system to establish the individual performance reliability model. • A novel method for factor validity and reliability performance analysis of the human behavior in green architecture construction engineering is presented. • The presented detailed method and steps can help us to know the influence of green architecture construction management and the environment. • The key factors to improve the reliability of the whole system can be found by the presented method. The factor validity and reliability performance analysis of the human cognitive behavior in green sustainable construction system has a great significant in safeguarding the quality and safety. At first, this paper analyzes factors affecting performance reliability of the human cognitive behavior in green sustainable construction system, and looks the humans and their environment as a whole system to establish the individual performance reliability model based on the Markov chain analysis method. Then, a novel hybrid computational intelligence method for factor validity and reliability performance analysis of the human cognitive behavior in green sustainable construction system is presented. The presented detailed method and steps can help us to know the influence of green construction management and the environment and find the key factors to improve the reliability of the whole system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Medication errors are a concern in overall the world. Although there are studies that investigate what may be the main causes that lead to the genesis of the medication error in the home care setting, there is no tool that correlates knowledge, attitudes, and behavior to medication errors in the context of home care. This study aimed to psychometrically test to the questionnaire on knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors in the administration of medication in the new setting: home care setting. Design: This observational study was reported according to the STROBE checklist. Sample: Sixty two nurses working in home care setting responded to the online survey. Measurement: The face and content validity of the items generated was assessed. An Exploratory Factorial Analysis descriptive statistical analysis was conducted. The final questionnaire is composed of 20 items. Results: The results of the statistical analyses allowed to validate the questionnaire, ensuring good internal consistency and reliability. Most of the sample pointed out that the use of electronic health record, medication reconciliation and the pharmacist's figure are all useful strategies for reducing the risk of medication errors. Conclusion: The questionnaire is reliable to measure knowledge, attitude, and behavior about medication errors prevention in home care settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the current study was to explore the scientific utility of two behavior analytic assessments (i.e., progressive ratio and demand assessments) for psychotropic medication evaluation. For a sample of 23 children with disabilities who were prescribed medication, we conducted a series of generalizability and optimization studies to identify sources of score variance and conditions in which stable estimates of behavior can be obtained. To inform construct validity, we calculated correlations between scores from each assessment and those from a standardized behavior rating scale (Aberrant Behavior Checklist-Second Edition; ABC-2). Results offer initial support for the scientific utility of progressive ratio scores. More research is needed to evaluate sensitivity to change and construct validity of scores from these and other behavior analytic assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug addiction problems have been identified as one of the high-risk factors closely linked to suicidal behaviour. Early detection of suicidal intent among addicts is important to ensure they do not take actions that could result in death. Accordingly, this study aimed to Suicidal Ideation Behaviour Assessment (SIBA) instruments specifically among 123 treated addicts in Cure and Care Rehabilitation Centre (CCRC), Besut. Based on those statements, the main objective of this study was to determine the content validity of SIBA instruments for using the content validation Ratio (CVR) method. Subjects that were involved in conducting the trial of the instruments were 8 experts from UniSZA, UPSI and UMT. The instrument validation process involved 40 items from four components. The previous study found that the instrument had high validity with the minimum level of CVR value (N=8, CVR = 0.88). Generally, all items were identified with values above 0.63 rated acceptable and no item has been rejected occur. The result showed that the instrument is appropriate, relevant, has the potential to be a good content validity and proved that SIBA has a great potential to be promoted as a good instrument. This study was conducted to detect intoxication of their suicidal ideation among drug addicts. This psychometric instrument is developed based on the situation in Malaysia. This study is expected to make a significant contribution to the government, especially the CCRC in assisting addicts with suicidal ideation behaviour by providing better attention and psychosocial support services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Implementation science has scant evidence of how dietary guidelines can be developed into actionable behavior-change messages and even less evidence on their motivating potential and perceived effect on behavior. This may explain the widening gap between nutrition science and individual behavior and the low uptake of dietary recommendations by the population for which they are intended. This study aimed to: (i) assess participant receptivity and acceptance of behavior-change messages; (ii) determine if the behavior-change strategies used in the messages and the main theme they relayed influenced participant evaluation of the messages; (iii) explore if evaluations varied by participants' stage of behavior-change; and (iv) elucidate reasons for non-compliance with the messages.Methods: An online survey was used to test the face validity and participant receptivity of 28 behavior-change messages, among a diverse sample of 2400 adult Brazilians. Participants' understanding of the messages, message likeability and convincingness, and the probability that participants would change behavior in accordance with the message were measured, along with reasons for non-compliance.Results: The mean overall scores suggested that participants liked the messages, understood them, and found them convincing. As expected, the probability of complying with the messages scored lower compared to other study outcomes. Messages about shopping practices, cooking practices, and planning and organization performed better than those on other themes. Participants were more receptive to messages that included behavior-change strategies like goals, social identity, and pleasure, however, the probability of compliance was higher for messages with constructs that emphasized health and cost consequences. Participants trying to change their diet or seeking resources to support healthier dietary choices had greater engagement with and receptivity to the messages. Time and effort, and high costs associated with making healthy changes, were barriers to compliance.Conclusions: Messages may help improve individual understanding, stimulate interest in a topic and get participants engaged, particularly if messages are goal-oriented and highlight the pleasure and collective identity of these food-related behaviors. However, messages stop short of addressing the structural, social, and economic barriers to healthy diets. These aspects will need to be targeted through legislative action for sustainable behavior change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The Autism Behavior Inventory (ABI) is an observer-reported outcome scale measuring core and associated features of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Extensive scale development (reported elsewhere) took place, in alignment with the Food and Drug Administration's patient-reported outcome guidance, to address the need for instruments to measure change and severity of ASD symptoms.Methods: Cognitive interviewing was used to confirm understanding and content validity of the scale prior to its use in clinical trials. Respondents were caregivers of individuals with ASD (N = 50). Interviews used a hybrid of the "think-aloud" and verbal probing approach to assess ABI's content validity and participant understanding of the instrument, including: item clarity and relevance; item interpretation; appropriateness of response scales; and clarity of instructions. Audio-recordings of the interviews were transcribed for qualitative data analysis. The scale was revised based on participant feedback and tested in a second round of interviews (round 1 N = 38, round 2 N = 12).Results: In total, 67/70 items reached ≥ 90% understandability across participants. Caregivers were able to select an appropriate response from the options available and reported finding the examples helpful. Based on participant feedback, instructions were simplified, 8 items were removed, and 10 items were reworded. The final revised 62-item scale was presented in round 2, where caregivers reported readily understanding the instructions, response options, and 61/62 items reached ≥ 90% understandability.Conclusions: Cognitive interviews with caregivers of a diverse sample of individuals with ASD confirm the content validity and relevance of the ABI to assess core and associated symptoms of ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prolonged disorders of consciousness (PDOC) following acquired brain injury affect a person's awareness of self and the environment. Motor, communication, sensory, and cognitive deficits challenge assessment. Rigorously tested behavioral assessments, sensitive to detecting awareness, are critical for discerning a prognosis for recovery and access to treatment. The Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R) is considered the gold standard in PDOC diagnostic assessments. This study explored preliminary concurrent validity of the Music Therapy Assessment Tool for Awareness in Disorders of Consciousness (MATADOC) with the CRS-R. The MATADOC and CRS-R were administered concurrently to 8 participants utilizing a repeated measures design. Correlations for diagnosis and item functionality were explored between and within the 2 measures. There was an adequate level of agreement between the 2 measures for overall diagnosis. Significant positive correlations were found between measures for all domains utilizing the MATADOC repeated administrations design. Within-measure relationships were significant for each of the auditory and communication domains with diagnosis for both measures, and additionally for each of the visual and arousal domains with diagnosis on the MATADOC. Both measures yielded significant inter-item relationships for auditory-visual domains, communication-visual domains, arousal-auditory domains, and arousal-visual domains. The MATADOC yielded an additional significant correlation for the auditory-communication domains. The findings have positive implications for the MATADOC as a diagnostic measure and companion assessment in cases of questionable diagnosis. Research with a larger sample is warranted. Generally, higher arousal scores on the MATADOC support music as effective in eliciting arousal, giving patients the opportunity to perform at their optimal level of function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Correlated trait–correlated method minus one was used to evaluate convergent and discriminant validity of Social Competence Behavior Evaluation questionnaire (Social Competence, Anger-Aggression, Anxiety-Withdrawal) between multiple raters. A total of 369 children (173 boys and 196 girls; M age = 55.85, SD age = 11.54) were rated by their mothers, fathers, and teachers. Results showed more convergence between parents than parent-teacher ratings. Mother-teacher share a common view of child behavior that is not shared with father. Parents had more difficulty distinguishing internalizing and externalizing behaviors (especially fathers). Measurement invariance across child sex was explored, results imply that differences between boys and girls were not due to measure. Girls (compare to boys) were described as more social competent by their fathers and teachers, while boys as more aggressive by mothers and teachers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improved characterization of quantitative traits and dimensionally distributed complex behaviors during toddlerhood may improve early identification of autism spectrum disorder and related neurodevelopmental disorders. Parents of 205 community-ascertained toddlers (age: mean = 20.2, SD = 2.6 months) completed the Repetitive Behavior Scales for Early Childhood (RBS-EC) and the Video-Referenced Rating of Reciprocal Social Behavior (vrRSB), with longitudinal follow-up of behavioral assessments and/or another round of parent-report questionnaires. Criterion validity was examined both concurrently and longitudinally using the Infant Toddler Social Emotional Assessment (ITSEA) as a criterion anchor. Reciprocal social behavior as measured by the vrRSB was significantly associated with social competence as measured by the ITSEA, longitudinally and concurrently. Reciprocal social behavior was not associated with the externalizing subscale on the ITSEA, providing evidence of discriminant validity. Higher-order repetitive behaviors (restricted interests; rituals and routines) as measured by RBS-EC subscales were associated with the dysregulation and internalizing subscales of the ITSEA, longitudinally and concurrently. All RBS-EC subscales (excepting repetitive motor) were associated concurrently and longitudinally with the dysregulation subscale of the ITSEA. We report evidence of criterion-oriented and discriminant validity for the constructs/domains captured by the RBS-EC and vrRSB. These instruments may be particularly useful in characterizing dimensional variability across the typical-to-atypical continuum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Innovative behaviour in today's environment is one of the most important aspects of ensuring innovation in an organization. Although there are several measurement instruments that have been developed to assess innovative behaviours, a good validity instruments are still lacking and limited. In this regard, this study aimed to test the validity of content validity of innovative behaviours measurement instruments specifically for teachers in Malaysia using the Content Validation Ratio (CVR) method to ensure that measurement instruments are appropriate for use in local contexts and cultures. The research is in the form of a written and online survey. Eleven experts in the field of innovation were selected through purposive sampling techniques consisting of nine professionals and two field experts who are still active in the Public University of Malaysia and the Ministry of Education Malaysia. The instrument validation process involved 34 items from four constructs. The quantitative study found that the instrument had good content validity with 27 items reaching the minimum level of CVR value (N = 11, CVRcritical= 0.636). Four items that do not meet the minimum CVR value will be purged while the remaining three items will be dropped from the instrument. The entire remaining 31 items will be purified as final instruments. The qualitative findings of the study found that the instrument is appropriate and relevant and has the potential to be a good instrument for measuring innovative behaviour among teachers. It is proposed that pilot studies be conducted, and the data should be analysed using more in-depth statistical analysis such as Rasch Model to obtain more detailed information about the items. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This paper constitutes a pilot study of a novel measure for assessing proneness to guilt and proneness to shame, Inventář tendence k vině a hanbě (ITVAH, Inventory of Proneness to Guilt and Shame). ITVAH is a scenario-based method distinguishing affective and behavioural components of guilt and shame and also considering the private or public experience of guilt and shame, respectively. Two items (affective and behavioural reaction) were created for each of the 16 scenarios, resulting in total of 32 items. A four-factor measurement model was assumed – Negative behaviour evaluation (NBE), Reparation, Negative self-evaluation (NSE), Withdrawal. Next, we assumed negative correlations of NSE and Withdrawal with self-esteem and self-forgiveness and positive correlations of NBE and Reparation with self-forgiveness. The pilot study was carried out on 249 Czech-speaking adults (67 % women, aged 18–75, Md = 22). An ordinal confirmatory factor analysis with residual covariances between items connected to the same scenarios was conducted. The hypothesized four-factor model was found acceptable. However, we found limited evidence for the hypothesized relationships with self-esteem and self-forgiveness – in contrast to theoretical expectations we found a medium-strong negative relationship between self-forgiveness and affective component of guilt. For further use of the measure in the Czech and Slovak environment it is necessary to assess additional evidence of construct validity and concurrent validity with The Test of Self-Conscious Affect-3 (TOSCA-3). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resulting from a community‐identified need for a well‐validated indicator of caregiving difficulties for use in practice settings, a brief form of the Atypical Maternal Behavior Instrument for Assessment and Classification System (AMBIANCE) was developed for use as a screening instrument. Prior to its dissemination, this study aimed to assess the feasibility, reliability, and validity of the AMBIANCE‐Brief. Adolescent mother–infant dyads (N = 69) participated in the Strange Situation Procedure, as well as play sessions with and without toys. Maternal disrupted caregiving was coded from the play sessions using the AMBIANCE and AMBIANCE‐Brief. The AMBIANCE‐Brief demonstrated convergent validity with the AMBIANCE in the play session with toys (r =.65, p <.001) and without toys (r =.61, p <.001). Concurrent validity of the AMBIANCE‐Brief was also demonstrated in relation to infant attachment disorganization in the play session with toys (r =.36, p <.05) and without toys (r =.32, p <.01). These findings suggest a shorter protocol for assessing disrupted caregiving may be feasible and valid for use in community settings. Future studies are in progress to train community practitioners in the use of the AMBIANCE‐Brief and to evaluate their reliability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective measures of circadian disruption are difficult to capture in a free-living environment hence the importance of validating subjective measures of jetlag. We aimed to assess the internal consistency of the 15-item Liverpool Jetlag Scale and its convergent and divergent validity with indicators of fatigue and anxiety in a large sample of air passengers. Online survey of passengers was conducted after travel on a range of long-haul flights. Jetlag was captured using the Liverpool scale, fatigue was measured using the Vitality subscale of the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), and the presence of anxiety or worry before, during, and after flight was self-reported. Inter-item correlations and Cronbach's alpha were calculated to assess the internal consistency of the scale. Exploratory factor analysis was used to examine whether the scale was consistent with one underlying construct of circadian disruption. Correlations between fatigue and anxiety (flying, situational, symptoms) with jetlag were used to assess convergent and divergent validity. Linear regression was used to determine the most important symptoms contributing to subjective jetlag rating. N = 460 passengers (57% female, mean age 50, SD 16 years) were surveyed. Cronbach's alpha indicated high internal reliability (alpha = 0.85). Jetlag was more strongly correlated with fatigue (rho = 0.47) than any type of anxiety (rho = 0.10–0.22). Exploratory factor analysis indicated responses were consistent with four factors: (i) fatigue/daytime impairment, (ii) sleep disturbance, (iii) changes in appetite and (iv) changes in bowel function. Regression analysis indicated that only changes in concentration, sleep time, fatigue, sleep quality and frequency of bowel motions were independent correlates of subjective jetlag (R2 = 27%). The Liverpool Jetlag Scale is internally consistent and demonstrates the expected relationships with fatigue and anxiety. Patterns of response are not consistent with all items being derived from one underlying factor, i.e. circadian disruption. Further, not all items contributed to the jetlag rating, suggesting the single-item rating may be useful for capturing the subjective experience of jetlag, whilst a total jetlag score is useful for also capturing circadian symptoms considered by passengers to be unrelated to jetlag. Validation of subjective jetlag against objective measures of circadian disruption is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Utena's Brief Objective Measures (UBOM) was developed to assess psychophysiological functions proximal to real‐world functioning in individuals with psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia (SCZ), to facilitate shared decision‐making. However, the validity of UBOM has not been fully examined. Methods: We conducted a cross‐sectional observational study to evaluate the validity of each of the three tests in UBOM: UBOM‐Pulse, UBOM‐Ruler, and UBOM‐Random. We investigated associations: (i) between UBOM and existing cognitive‐ and autonomic‐function tests; and (ii) between UBOM and daily social functioning. The participants included SCZ individuals and healthy controls. We evaluated the cognitive and autonomic function using UBOM, the heart rate variability test, the simple reaction time test, and the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia, Japanese version. We also assessed the daily social functioning using the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 and the modified Global Assessment of Functioning, Japanese version. Results: Thirty‐one SCZ individuals and 35 healthy control individuals participated in this study. In the SCZ group, UBOM‐Ruler was significantly associated with the Cognition and Getting Along domains of WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0. UBOM‐Random was significantly associated with the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia's Working Memory, Verbal Fluency and Attention domains, and the modified Global Assessment of Functioning in the SCZ group. Conclusion: The validity of the current version of UBOM is imperfect and further improvements will be necessary to attain the originally intended goal of developing a brief assessment tool for real‐world functioning in SCZ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organizations face challenges of screening applicants for critical skills to serve in expert staff positions requiring interactions with line managers. Such positions require a special set of cognitive and interpersonal competencies. This study investigates the psychometric qualities of a new behavioral assessment method in use in an applied setting. Using data from a group of 219 finalists for positions in a large Iranian steel company, it examined the validity and fairness of the method in relation to other test and demographic information. Results showed evidence of convergent and discriminant validity and no discrimination against women or older candidates. The study contributes to a clearer understanding of expert competencies and a practical method for assessing and training such competencies. Next steps and future needs are identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, multiple measures are obtained for variables said to constitute the normative and attitudinal components of Fishbein's behavioral intention model. The convergent, discriminant, and predictive validity of the model is assessed by use of structural equation models with latent variables. This approach has several advantages over past approaches in which single measures and regression or path analysis have been used to assess the model's validity. In general the results support a model in which a single attitude construct and a single normative construct are antecedents of intention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Do behavioral measures of ecological lifestyles reflect actual environmental impact? Three convenience samples of German adults (N = 881) completed such a measure, the General Ecological Behavior (GEB) scale. Their household electricity consumption was self-reported (Study 1), assessed by a smart-meter (Study 2), or reported by the power company (Study 3). The latter two studies controlled for income, which can boost consumption just as it opens possibilities for behaving ecologically. Within and across studies, analyses revealed a negative association between self-reported ecological behavior and electricity consumption (−.18 ≤ rs ≤ −.22), even with adjustment for income. Furthermore, customers in a green electricity program reported more ecological engagement and consumed one third less electricity than did regular customers. These results indicate the criterion validity of the GEB scale for a highly practically relevant criterion and encourage the use of generic behavior measures in efforts to understand and foster more ecological lifestyles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim: The aim of the Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale (BNBAS) is to gather a comprehensive profile of neonatal functioning by describing the full range of neonatal behavior, including competencies and strengths, as well as difficulties or deviations. This instrument has proved to be of great clinical value by detecting infants at risk for later developmental problems. This work was conducted methodologically with the aim of a Turkish validity and reliability study of the BNBAS. Materials and methods: The study was conducted in a large tertiary hospital in Turkey. After establishing content and language validity, the BNBAS was applied to 380 newborns aged 1–3 days and test–retest analysis was performed for 60 newborns 52–55 days later in the first phase. The validity and reliability study of the BNBAS included behavior and support subscales, while reflex items were not included. Results: In the study, 5 items were excluded from the original BNBAS after the factor analysis. Cronbach alpha was found as 0.974 (30 items). The behavior subscale consisted of 23 items and the support subscale consisted of 7 items. Newborns showed good overall tone and activity level and low amounts of irritable behavior. Conclusion: It may be recommended to use the BNBAS as a valid and reliable measurement tool in neonatal behavioral evaluation by physicians and nurses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted this study to add to literature of previous conflicting factorial examinations of the BASC-2 Behavioral and Emotional Screening System (BESS), Teacher Form-Child/Adolescent. Data were collected by an urban school district in the southeastern United States including 2,228 students rated by 120 teachers in Fall 2014 and 1,955 students rated by 104 teachers in Spring 2015. In both samples, we replicated and then conceptually and statistically compared factor models to examine the (a) 4-factor structure from which the BESS Teacher Form was developed, and (b) existence of a general factor currently being used. Previous studies examined the 4-factor and bifactor structure of the BESS Teacher Form on separate samples. Our model comparison results support a multidimensional interpretation. We recovered similar fit statistics and standardized factor loadings as previous factor analyses. However, measures of variance accounted for by the general factor were below recommended thresholds of a unidimensional construct. We recommend advancing a factorial model that represents a weighted combination of general and specific factors, but do not support continued use of a unidimensional total T score. Limitations and implications of the study are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE. In this article, we evaluate psychometric properties of the Child's Challenging Behaviour Scale, Version 2 (CCBS-2) with mothers of young, typically developing children. METHOD. A cross-sectional mail survey with Australian mothers (N = 337) included the CCBS-2, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales, and the Parents' Evaluation of Developmental Status scale. RESULTS. Internal consistency was good, and no gender differences in CCBS-2 scores were significant. Significant results included differences between CCBS-2 scores: among children grouped according to age, among children grouped according to pre-and post-school entry, among mothers grouped according to extent of any symptom type, and between this sample and a previously collected age-matched sample of children with disabilities. CONCLUSION. Of the properties tested, results support sound psychometrics. The CCBS-2 can be used to differentiate children according to age, school entry, and disability as well as to identify families for potential services in behavior management and mental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Venham's Behavior Rating Scale ( VBRS) is a measure of uncooperative behavior developed to assess children's responses to dental stress. Aim To evaluate the validity of the Brazilian version of the VBRS. Design Children aged 7-13 years were invited to participate in this study. Child behavior was concurrently assessed with both the VBRS and the Frankl Scale. A receiver operating characteristic curve ( ROC) was plotted to determine the cut-off points of the Brazilian version of the VBRS. Criterion validity was determined using Spearman's correlation coefficient. Discriminant validity was tested before and after scale dichotomization. Results A total of 265 children participated in this study. According to the ROC curve, the ≥1 cut-off point was best for this population ( SENS 97.4%; SPEC 94.7%). The Brazilian version of the VBRS was significantly correlated with the Frankl Scale ( r −0.69; <0.001, r −0.72; <0.001). Child behavior assessed was related to complexity of treatment, type of procedure, use of local anesthesia, and dental fear. Conclusions The results provide strong evidence for the validity of Brazilian version of the VBRS in behavior assessment of children aged 7-13 years during dental care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]